Research on the cost of health care and how to control it. Covers cardiovascular care in Latin America, emergency-visit costs, insulin pricing, and screening gaps.
A global strategy aims to protect households from catastrophic health-care payments. By reducing out-of-pocket spending, financing through general taxes and social insurance can provide access to needed services.
A study published in the American Journal of Public Health found that Hurricane Floyd caused substantial changes in healthcare patterns that lasted for over a year. The storm led to increased use of emergency rooms and outpatient services, particularly among Medicaid recipients, with estimated costs of $13.3 million.
According to a study by Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, China loses an estimated 12 million productive working years annually due to injuries. The economic burden is substantial, with motor vehicle crashes, suicide, and falls accounting for the majority of productivity lost.
Private Medicare+Choice plans experience instability, with low participation rates and high turnover among physicians and hospitals. The complex choice of benefits and cost-sharing makes it difficult for beneficiaries to make informed decisions.
A study found that people with diabetes in Saskatchewan accounted for $134.3 million in health care expenditures, with major comorbidities contributing to 36.4% of these costs. Targeted strategies to prevent diabetes could produce substantial savings and improved health outcomes.
The US healthcare system faces a high-performance goal with increasing efficiency and effectiveness. Key steps outlined include public reporting of data on providers, health plans, and demonstrations of new approaches to insurance coverage, technology, and quality standards.
A study found that physicians prioritize profits over patient benefits when considering cost savings. More than half of responding physicians believed money saved would go to insurance executives rather than patients or improved services. The study highlights the disconnect between doctor perceptions and long-term societal benefits.
A recent study by the American Heart Association has linked high fruit and vegetable intake to lower healthcare costs in older age. The study found that middle-aged men who consumed more than 42 cups of fruits and vegetables per month had significantly lower Medicare charges compared to those who consumed less.
A landmark cooperative study found that patients with upper lobe emphysema and low exercise capacity benefit more from lung volume reduction surgeries (LVRS), while those without these characteristics experience decreased survival and functional levels. LVRS improved lung function and exercise capacity, but had no long-term benefits.
A recent study evaluated the medical costs of osteoporosis therapies and found that patients taking weekly Fosamax had lower GI-related medical costs compared to those taking daily or weekly doses. The analysis, conducted with a large medical claims database, also revealed that treating patients with a weekly dose of Fosamax versus a d...
A team of researchers has developed a new method to prevent urinary catheter infections, which affects millions worldwide. By using a mild triclosan solution to inflate the balloon holding the catheter, they have successfully eliminated bacterial growth and blockages, offering a promising solution to this long-standing problem.
A study reveals that CT scans are more effective than plain film radiography in diagnosing cervical spine trauma. The research found a higher incidence of true positive findings with CT (5.85%) compared to plain film (.50%), as well as lower costs due to reduced examination time.
Uninsured cancer patients receive far less health care, with higher out-of-pocket spending compared to privately insured patients. The study highlights disparities in healthcare coverage between Hispanic and non-Hispanic populations, with uninsured Hispanic patients facing significant barriers to care.
The study finds that adding Keppra to standard therapy can lead to seizure freedom in refractory patients with a moderate increase in costs. This results in significant healthcare savings, making it a cost-effective alternative.
Researchers found that elderly patients often experience a loss of function after hospitalization, with over 50% of those 85 and older experiencing functional decline. This decline can lead to institutionalization, increased burden on caregivers, and higher healthcare costs.
Antibiotic prescriptions decreased for common cold and respiratory infections, but broad-spectrum use increased, posing a threat to public health. The misuse of broad-spectrum antibiotics contributes to the creation of resistant bacteria strains.
Employers and insurers are exploring new hospital-tier insurance plans to increase enrollees' sensitivity to price variations between hospitals. This trend aims to moderate hospital prices by providing incentives for cost-conscious consumers to choose lower-cost facilities.
A study found that 26% of jurors sanctioned deception by doctors to obtain care, while 70% favored appealing denied requests. The public's lack of trust in the healthcare system has led to support for 'physician gaming' to gain access to needed care.
Healthcare networks have struggled to deliver high-quality care at lower costs due to structural problems with information systems and functional failures in creating a new culture. Despite the potential for improved efficiencies, many networks have failed to address these issues, leading to under-performance on a national level.
A study of six employers found that employees cost $3,524 a year in average healthcare costs due to physical health conditions. Heart disease was the most expensive condition at $236 per employee, followed by high blood pressure at $160 per employee.
A recent study found drotrecogin alfa (activated) to be as cost-effective as several commonly used life-saving treatments, including statins and lung transplants. The drug's acquisition cost falls below the $100,000 per QALY threshold for cost-effectiveness.
A new study by Dee W. Edington, Ph.D., of the University of Michigan found that individuals with obesity incur significantly higher medical costs than those with normal weight, with average annual costs rising from $2,225 to $3,753 for obese individuals. The economic burden of obesity is estimated to be substantial, with conservative e...
A new study suggests that living longer will not lead to significantly increased healthcare costs, especially after age 85. The research found that average monthly health-care expenditures decrease for those who survive into their mid-80s or beyond. In contrast, the last two years of life often see steeper rises in health-related costs...
A study of 7,300 people found that intermittent lack of insurance coverage resulted in lower use of clinical preventive services. This decrease was particularly pronounced for women who underwent fewer pap tests and mammograms, as well as men who received less prostate cancer screening.
A two-year study found that hospitalists reduced average patient stays by half a day, resulting in $782 per-patient cost savings. Hospitalists also achieved lower short-term mortality rates, specifically a 37% reduction in 30-day mortality.
A landmark study found that left-ventricular assist devices (LVADs) for heart failure patients cost $196,699, similar to liver transplantation ($250,000). The device has been shown to significantly improve survival and quality of life. Improving management of these critically ill patients could reduce costs.
Research suggests that reducing air pollution can lead to significant cost savings in healthcare, particularly for outpatient care. The study found a strong correlation between air pollution levels and respiratory admissions, with the greatest hospital admissions occurring in the Deep South.
A study analyzing patient deaths and survivors in German hospitals found that nearly 40% of total expenditures went towards the care of just 10% of patients. The most expensive group were young female cancer patients, while old and terminally ill patients accounted for the lowest costs.
A study projects that increasing BMD testing for women with osteoporosis or osteopenia would reduce fractures by 6,683 over three years and result in net Medicare savings of $15.5 million. This could lead to increased patient benefits while reducing costs.
A recent study by the American College of Gastroenterology found that surgical treatment for gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) does not eliminate the need for acid-reducing therapy. Despite lower medication costs in surgically managed patients, overall medical costs were higher due to surgery costs.
Fatigued doctors and nurses can impair their judgment and reaction time, posing a significant risk to patient safety. Implementing changes such as shorter shifts and limiting high-intensity work during daylight hours could promote harmony with the body's natural sleep cycle and improve patient outcomes.
Researchers at Emory University Health Sciences Center found that early, aggressive treatment for acute coronary syndromes is more cost-effective over time due to decreased medical and other expenses. This approach offers the best prognosis for patients and reduces major cardiac events.
A survey of 3,457 Americans found that elderly Medicare beneficiaries experience better satisfaction with their coverage, including improved access to care and reduced out-of-pocket costs. In contrast, privately insured individuals reported more problems with accessing necessary services and paying medical bills.
A recent study published in Alcoholism: Clinical & Experimental Research found that transit employees with heavier weekly drinking rates were more likely to experience trauma on the job. The study suggests that off-the-job drinking can have costly impacts for workers and transit agencies, highlighting the importance of considering fact...
A recent study estimates that cigarette tax hikes could prevent between 5 million to 16 million tobacco-related deaths globally. The greatest savings would be in low- and middle-income countries, with the greatest impact on young smokers. Price increases are considered the most cost-effective anti-smoking intervention.
A recent survey by Drew Blendon reveals that healthcare costs, inadequate insurance coverage, and the cost of drugs remain major health care concerns for Americans. Meanwhile, terrorism, homeland defense, and the economy are considered more pressing issues by voters.
A study by the University of Michigan found that migraine headaches affect 18% of women and 6% of men, resulting in significant lost productivity costs for employers. Employers can reduce these costs by providing education, preventive services, and direct treatment within the workplace.
Newborn diabetes screening benefits patients, medicine, and society by preventing complications, identifying at-risk individuals, and advancing research. Early detection enables targeted interventions to improve disease management, reduce hospitalizations, and lower medical costs.
A study found that over half of children's Medicaid expenses are for injuries, with an average cost of $396 per child per year. The most common injury types were blunt force and penetrating trauma, often caused by falls.
A review of medical savings accounts (MSAs) suggests they are unlikely to reduce healthcare spending while maintaining access to services for all Canadians. MSAs were assessed using data from Manitoba residents, and the results showed an increase in government spending on healthcare if the threshold was used as MSA entitlement.
The Medicare+Choice program may stabilize enrollment, but its expansion is unlikely due to conflicting policy goals. The authors found that M+C plans provide significant added benefits to low-income beneficiaries.
A strong primary care system is crucial for a nation's health, with countries boasting robust systems showing the most favorable health indicators at young ages. Strong primary care is particularly important for children, as it significantly impacts postneonatal mortality rates and low birthweight.
A new study by UCSF researchers reveals that osteoporosis has significant economic costs for Californians, with Medicare paying for most hospital care and nursing home care being the largest expense. Early detection and prevention are critical to reducing these costs, which include indirect losses due to premature death.
A randomized trial found that virtual outreach services, where patients and GPs attend a video conference with specialists, resulted in more follow-up appointments (52%) and fewer tests ordered compared to standard outpatient referrals. Patients expressed greater satisfaction with virtual outreach consultations.
This study estimates the direct and indirect costs of prostate cancer in California for 1998, finding that hospitalization costs account for almost three-fifths of total costs. Prostate cancer adds significant costs to patients with comorbid conditions, such as heart disease or respiratory illness.
A study by Philip Breitfeld shows that initial hospital treatment costs can top $75,000 per child, but the average cost per year of life saved is just $2,700. Insurers lack access to data to justify spending on curative cancer therapies, leading to denied payments for high-priced procedures.
A study published in Gastroenterology reveals the top gastrointestinal and liver diseases causing financial burden, with GERD being the most expensive at $9.3 billion annually. The study estimates a total of $36 billion in direct costs and $22.8 billion in indirect costs, affecting millions of Americans.
Researchers found HMO patients with capitation payment received 17% more health counseling and preventive services, but spent an average of 2 minutes less time with doctors. This study dispels fears about capitation payment's impact on quality care.
A new study finds that lifestyle factors, including obesity and stress, significantly predict healthcare costs among young employed adults. Participants with high-risk scores for overall wellness, stress, or obesity used more healthcare services and incurred higher costs.
A study of 1,185 seriously ill patients found that 60% expressed a preference for comfort care but 35% believed they received aggressive treatment. Patients who received inconsistent care had significantly higher medical costs and lower survival rates.
A new study has found that fluticasone steroid nasal spray is more effective in reducing symptoms and inflammation of seasonal allergies compared to a combination of antihistamines. The treatment had minimal side effects, with the researchers preferring it due to its effect on inflammation.
Recent studies have shown that low-dose computed tomography can detect lung cancers at an earlier stage than traditional chest radiography. Additionally, research has found a higher incidence of acute lung injury in Australian intensive care units, with lower mortality rates compared to international studies. Furthermore, experts argue...
African-American patients with non-small-cell lung cancer have a significantly lower one-year survival rate compared to non-African-American patients. Despite similar disease stages and health care disparities, researchers found no difference in outcomes after adjusting for factors such as performance status and socioeconomic status.
The Choice Plus plan, a direct contracting health plan, contains costs and maintains quality of care. The study found that hospital care costs dropped, while ambulatory care rose slightly.
Researchers found that dedicated stroke teams can improve treatment with tissue plasminogen activator (tPA) without increasing hospital costs. The use of tPA increased by 2.1 times in the year with a specialized team compared to the year without one.
As Alzheimer's symptoms progress, so do the costs of caregiver and patient care, with average six-month costs exceeding $29,000 per patient. Researchers urge earlier treatment to prevent increased costs and burden on caregivers.
The hospitalist model of inpatient care has achieved many attributes of other medical specialties and is expected to become the dominant model. Studies have shown significant decreases in hospital costs and lengths of stay, with no negative impact on quality measures.
A study found that physician interventions can significantly decrease alcohol use and related health issues in at-risk patients. The intervention program, Project TrEAT, resulted in a 15-20% reduction in patient health care utilization and overall costs.
A recent study revealed that screening high-risk patients for diabetes may not be cost-effective, with a low yield and high cost. Additionally, a quality intervention to improve depression care was ineffective in real-world settings, highlighting the need for system changes to close care gaps.
A study published in JAMA found that the misdiagnosis rate for appendicitis remained high despite the availability of new diagnostic tests, particularly among young women and older men. The researchers analyzed data from 85,790 appendectomies performed in Washington state between 1987 and 1998 and found that the rate of misdiagnosis in...