Articles tagged with Health Care Costs
Researchers found that sunscreens with the same SPF of 50 and active ingredients can range from $0.04 to $3.79 per application, highlighting huge variations depending on product price and skin exposure.
The study found that telemedicine patient visits were billed $400 less and resulted in fewer follow-up visits compared to in-person appointments. For respiratory symptoms, telemedicine appointments were cheaper by roughly $800 on average, highlighting its cost-efficiency.
A new study reveals that Australia's mental health system inadequately protects patients from high healthcare costs, leading to financial burden. The research emphasizes the need for increased rebates for mental health services to address this inequity.
A study analyzing data from 44,000 adults found that those with intellectual and developmental disabilities experience substantially higher rates of anxiety and depression. The study also highlights significant healthcare treatment and access barriers facing this population.
A study by University of Virginia Health System researchers found that Medicare Advantage patients had better access to preventive care and rehabilitation after a stroke, leading to faster recovery times. In contrast, traditional Medicare patients were less likely to receive these services due to prior authorization requirements.
A new Cochrane review found that nurse-led hospital care matches doctor-led care for safety and effectiveness, but may achieve better outcomes in some areas. Nurse substitution is not a one-size-fits-all approach, requiring the right training and support to work well.
A new study published in Health Economics finds that universal free prescription drug coverage reduced average out-of-pocket medication spending by 23% and catastrophic drug expenses by 62%. However, the policy also led to unintended behavioral responses, such as increased spending on unhealthy goods.
A new report published in The Lancet Child & Adolescent Health highlights the significant global palliative care gap among children, with 96% of those in need living in low- and middle-income countries. The study estimates that $1 million per year is sufficient to cover pain medications for all children ages 0-14 years in need who live...
A new guideline published in CMAJ advises hospitals to implement 21 recommendations to increase environmental sustainability in operating rooms. The guidelines include reducing energy use, using reusable devices, developing recycling programs, and rethinking disposal of unused supplies.
A new study finds that the 2010 WHO Code initially reduced physician migration from World Health Organization-designated shortage countries, but did not improve their physician supply. The code showed promise in reducing physician emigration by approximately 2,600 fewer physicians each year, but its effects diminished over time.
Researchers discovered that collaborative care programs improve quality of life, reduce costs, and alleviate caregiver burden for dementia patients. Adding lecanemab to treatment increased healthcare costs but was offset by the savings from collaborative care.
The new guidelines outline standardized infrastructure planning, workforce development, technology integration, and emergency preparedness measures to standardize critical care across hospitals in China. The initiative aims to reduce disparities in care and ensure evidence-based treatment nationwide.
A new study found that providing financial vouchers to offset medication costs can significantly improve glycemic control among patients with uncontrolled Type 2 diabetes. After six months, participants receiving performance-based incentives saw a clinically substantial reduction in HbA1c levels.
A recent study highlights the dangers of a compartmentalized medical system and proposes three essential reforms to promote inclusive care. Patients with multiple conditions face difficulties in accessing care due to fragmented services, while interdisciplinary care ultimately leads to positive outcomes.
A new study found that young adults with complex childhood-onset conditions experience longer hospital stays, higher readmission rates, and greater use of resources in adult hospitals. These patients account for 6.7% of young adult hospitalizations but occupy 10.7% of all hospital bed-days.
Smartwatches with PPG and ECG functionality improve atrial fibrillation detection, detecting it four times more often than standard care. Researchers detected heart arrhythmia in 21 patients using smartwatches compared to five in those receiving standard care after six months of monitoring.
Commercially insured patients frequently bypass rural hospitals between 2012 and 2021, generating large payments for receiving hospitals. The findings highlight the need for addressing this issue to alleviate financial distress on rural healthcare facilities.
A new USC white paper reveals that PBMs' reported profit margins are influenced by accounting practices, making it challenging for policymakers to understand the true cost drivers. The researchers suggest requiring financial transparency from PBMs to develop a better picture of their operations and costs.
The US saw a decline in nursing home capacity between 2019 and 2024, with rural areas experiencing the greatest declines. The decline was linked to longer hospital stays and increased distance between patients' homes and available nursing facilities.
A machine learning model has identified the most important drivers of cancer survival in nearly all countries, highlighting factors such as national wealth, access to radiotherapy and universal health coverage. The model provides data-driven roadmaps for policymakers to prioritize resources and close survival gaps.
The study reveals that diabetes poses a significant challenge for healthcare systems and economies worldwide. The economic impact of diabetes is substantial, with an estimated global cost of up to $152 trillion, equivalent to 1.7% of GDP, when informal care is factored in.
A new rapid test for hepatitis C could identify more patients who can be cured if insurers increase reimbursement to cover the test's high cost. The test's point-of-care feature makes it ideal for early screening and treatment in clinics and emergency rooms.
Recent research aims to refine understanding of oral-systemic disease connections, exploring how oral health affects systemic risk and vice versa. Studies investigate mechanisms underlying oral and systemic disease links.
A new University of Oxford-led study found that exposure to non-optimal temperatures accounts for 3.0% of recorded healthcare costs in England, equivalent to £3 billion annually. Cold days drive cumulative demand surges, while very hot days cause sharp same-day spikes in services.
The study found a significant increase in alcohol-related hospitalizations between 2016 and 2022, with rising mortality rates and extended lengths of stay. Preventive efforts are needed to reduce population-level alcohol consumption and improve treatment outcomes for individuals with alcohol use disorder.
A recent study published in JAMA Internal Medicine found that a significant majority of Americans will experience cost burdens due to healthcare expenses throughout their lives. The study suggests that policies aiming to reduce out-of-pocket costs could potentially improve the well-being of individuals in the US.
A new University of Ottawa study highlights the positive impact of a hybrid approach combining virtual and in-person care, improving access to primary care in rural regions. The hybrid model has been found to be effective in recruiting providers in underserved areas and providing equitable care access for patients.
A study analyzing Medicare claims data found that older adults who lived through Hurricane Harvey had a 3% elevated risk of dying within 1 year. Mortality risk was highest among those with chronic health conditions like Alzheimer's disease, and Black and Hispanic/Latino populations experienced higher mortality risks than other groups.
A new study finds that raising the minimum legal drinking age from 16 to 18 years significantly improves academic performance and mental health among European teenagers. The research, conducted by Carmen Villa, shows a decrease in binge drinking and intoxication, leading to better PISA exam scores and reduced anxiety medication use.
The study found that behavioral health care accounted for $41.8 billion of overall health spending in 2022, with families paying an average of $2.9 billion out-of-pocket. The costs have grown more than twice as fast as other types of medical care, with telehealth visits increasing by 99% per year.
A three-year study by the University of Plymouth is investigating why fewer overseas-trained doctors become GPs and consultants in the NHS. The project seeks solutions at individual, trust, and national levels to support international medical graduates' career progression.
The Asia Pacific Regional Audit highlights key trends, gaps, and opportunities in 22 countries and regions. The audit reveals a steep rise in fracture rates due to poor bone health and an ageing population, with China, Malaysia, and Australia experiencing significant increases.
A UK-based study found that epilepsy can be a primary cause of death in people with intellectual disabilities, with those from ethnic minorities living in the UK being particularly at risk. The research highlights significant disparities in care and service provision, calling for systemic changes to prevent avoidable deaths.
A University of Arizona-led study finds that PFAS contamination in drinking water costs the US at least $8 billion annually in social costs, with negative impacts on infant health and long-term economic benefits from cleanup and regulation.
Health insurance premiums rose at rates close to hospital prices during the COVID-19 pandemic but have since stabilized, reflecting shifts in healthcare utilization. Insurance premiums increased 3 times faster than workers' earnings since 1999, accompanied by rising hospital costs.
Nearly one-third of families with children being treated for acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) experience serious financial difficulties, including losing 25% or more of their household income. The study, led by Dr. Daniel Zheng, found that nearly a third of families struggled to meet basic living costs during their child's treatment.
The study found that children with at least one complex chronic condition now account for more than two-fifths of pediatric bed days and nearly three-fifths of hospital charges. The concentration of these children in urban teaching hospitals has real implications for where care happens, who delivers it, and how it is paid for.
A Brown University analysis shows Oregon's hospital payment cap cut costs by an estimated $107.5 million annually, with no reduction in services or staffing. The policy also led to slight improvements in patient satisfaction scores, particularly in communication with nurses and doctors.
A new study reveals thousands of NHS knee replacement operations are cancelled annually for avoidable reasons, costing millions and prolonging waiting times. Lack of available beds and medical ineligibility were the most common causes, with many cancellations avoidable with advance planning.
Researchers at University of California San Diego School of Medicine found that streamlined surgical preference cards can significantly reduce hospital waste and improve operational efficiency. By analyzing thousands of surgeries, they identified unnecessary items and optimized lists to save up to $3 million over five months.
The study found that federal loan restrictions will place substantial financial barriers on aspiring physicians, potentially reducing workforce diversity and worsening existing physician shortages. The researchers urge policymakers and medical schools to consider targeted solutions like loan forgiveness or tuition reduction programs.
A US study of over a million Medicaid enrollees reveals major gaps in access to medication-based addiction treatments, particularly for Black patients. Methadone and buprenorphine show significant overdose risk reductions, highlighting the need for policy reforms to ensure timely access.
A new study reveals that social determinants of health have a significant impact on rural–urban differences in colorectal cancer mortality rates. The research found that low socioeconomic status, household characteristics, and racial/ethnic minority status were key drivers of these disparities.
Researchers investigate how adjacent cities exacerbate each other's heat island effects. A study also highlights the need for improved hindcasting infrastructure in climate science. Additionally, a campaign monitors pinned clouds over industrial sources of heat and finds that trees are more reliable against heat stress than buildings.
A new study found that access to wheelchairs through Medicare-listed suppliers is inconsistent and often challenging due to administrative requirements and long delivery timelines. The research highlights the need for policy changes to assist vulnerable older adults in accessing critical medical equipment.
A clinical trial in Africa has discovered a single-dose treatment combining sulfadoxine, pyrimethamine, artesunate, and pyronaridine (SPAP) that is as effective as traditional multi-day treatments in curing uncomplicated malaria. The study addresses the growing threat of drug-resistant malaria parasites and improves treatment adherence.
A study by Brown University and Harvard University found that premature deaths among adults aged 18-64 increased by 27% from 2012 to 2022, with Black Americans facing a 38% higher rate. This trend prevents many from accessing Medicare benefits, highlighting the inequities in the social safety net.
A recent study by researchers at ICES and Sunnybrook Research Institute found that adults diagnosed with concussions are 50% more likely to be involved in a serious traffic crash. The study highlights the importance of prioritizing road safety after a concussion, including avoiding high-speed trips during late-night hours.
The American Association for Cancer Research (AACR) endorses a federal policy that sets a maximum nicotine product standard, limiting nicotine levels in combustible cigarettes and related tobacco products to 0.7 mg/g. This reduction aims to make cigarettes minimally or non-addictive, striking at the chemical that keeps people hooked. E...
Two new studies found that 75% of adults prefer non-colonoscopy screening options like stool tests, while physicians prefer colonoscopy. Additionally, follow-up colonoscopies rose 41% after a policy change eliminated patient cost sharing for abnormal home-based stool tests.
Provincial partnerships with corporate-provided virtual care programs raise concerns about access, quality of care, and data privacy. Governments must ensure healthcare standards are met, protect patient data, and maintain transparency around contracts and profits. The authors advise caution before introducing corporate entities in the...
A study of almost 10 million patients in Ontario found that those living over 30 km from their family physician were more likely to visit the emergency department for nonurgent reasons and had fewer visits with a family physician. The distance also negatively impacted preventive screening for certain cancers.
The journal is launching a new section to popularize evidence-based strategic planning in digital health and provide comprehensive guidelines for its application. Papers can explore topics such as strategic planning frameworks, case studies of successful implementations, and stakeholder engagement.
A University of East Anglia study found that treating patients at home with IV antibiotics can save the NHS over £3,500 per patient and potentially free-up vital hospital beds. The treatment involves having antibiotics prepared at home and continuously delivered into the bloodstream by an elastomeric pump.
A study published in Alzheimer's & Dementia found that specially qualified nurses with extended roles can measurably improve the care of people with dementia living at home. The approach reduced unmet needs more effectively than standard care and improved the quality of life for affected individuals.
Inpatient care offers a range of supports, from reducing drug use to abstinence, but access is challenging due to long wait-lists. The RE-AIM framework helps evaluate the effectiveness of bed-based care and its capacity to meet population needs.
Research on 1,000 older Japanese adults found that declining hand function significantly increases the risk of requiring long-term care. Hand function below a certain threshold was associated with an increased risk, highlighting its importance for daily activities and overall health.
Ochsner Accountable Care Network (OACN) has saved $44.8 million in 2024 while improving care for nearly 60,000 patients. The network ranked No. 3 out of 476 ACOs nationwide for care coordination and placed in the top 11% for overall quality.
JMIR Publications invites submissions on navigating AI-enabled uncertainty in healthcare management, with a focus on practical guidance for senior management and administrators. The theme issue explores topics such as AI-enabled reimbursement, cloud migration, and vendor dynamics.
Physician Organization of Michigan ACO (POM ACO) has achieved significant savings for Medicare by reducing unnecessary spending and focusing on preventive care. The organization's efforts saved Medicare nearly $35 million in 2024, with members sharing in the $17 million incentive.