A new study finds that patient-centered medical homes (PCMHs) have higher per-patient operating costs, with additional expenses for personnel, technology, and quality improvement measures. The PCMH model aims to improve care quality and reduce wasteful spending, but its financial sustainability is threatened by these increased costs.
A study published in JAMA found that community health centers with higher patient-centered medical home ratings had higher operating costs. The study analyzed data from 1,009 federally funded health centers and found that a 10-point higher total PCMH score was associated with a $2.26 higher operating cost per patient per month.
A study found that nursing home staff cohesion improves care quality, leading to reduced incidence of incontinence and pressure ulcers. The research used data from over 45,000 residents in 162 facilities across New York State, revealing a significant association between staff cohesion and better health outcomes.
A multicenter study led by Johns Hopkins researcher Bruce Leff found that six geriatric health care delivery models improved quality of care while reducing medical costs. The study, published in Health Affairs, highlights the effectiveness of models such as NICHE and Pall. Care in improving patient-centered care and reducing costs.
The Johns Hopkins-developed program provides acute hospital-level care within a patient's home, resulting in lower costs and equal or better outcomes compared to traditional hospital inpatients. The study found Hospital at Home patients had slightly lower hospital readmission and mortality rates and higher satisfaction scores.
The university's School of Medicine will train and place additional psychiatrists, primary care physicians, advance practice nurses, dentists, and other practitioners to serve Medicaid beneficiaries. The program aims to expand healthcare workforce focused on Medicaid patients' needs.
Researchers developed STeleR, a home telerehabilitation program that improves lower body physical functioning after a stroke. Participating in STeleR also enhances money management skills and improves daily living abilities.
Researchers found that primary care-based management was comparable to specialist care in terms of ESS scores, FOSQ scores, and CPAP compliance. Home auto-titrating CPAP usage was also similar between the two groups. The study suggests a lower-cost alternative for OSA treatment, particularly beneficial for rural and remote regions.
A Bluetooth enabled fetal heart rate monitoring system has been developed for accurate long-term home care, showing a high level of accuracy compared to ultrasound-based Doppler shift technique, with 98% accuracy. The system is non-invasive, portable, and low power consumption, making it suitable for mothers-to-be.
Research presented at the American Heart Association's Quality of Care and Outcomes Research Scientific Sessions 2012 found that home telemonitoring with pharmacist-led support improved blood pressure control in patients with uncontrolled high blood pressure. The study, which involved 450 patients, showed a significant reduction in blo...
The 'From Clinic to Community' project aims to improve health outcomes for at-risk populations in Southeastern US counties. It combines modern technology with community-based healthcare professionals to address the triple aim of better outcomes, better care, and lower cost.
Community health plans have broken down silos of care to coordinate among providers and directly engage with patients, leading to successful transitions. The Avalere report highlights five practices that facilitate care transition programs, including using data to tailor programs to patients' needs.
A family life study reveals that transitional events such as school transition, relationship changes, and home moves can trigger eating disorders in young people. Participants reported feeling lonely, unsupported, and lacking emotional support during these transitions, leading to the development of conditions like anorexia and bulimia.
A new study by Queen's University Belfast reveals women face a higher risk of care home admission due to their partner's age. The research found that on average, women have partners who are approximately 5 years older, and those with limiting long-term illnesses were more likely to be admitted to care homes.
New research reveals women are 40% more likely to be admitted to care homes than men, primarily due to their partners' age-related frailty. The study highlights the importance of considering age differences in future health planning as life expectancy gaps between men and women narrow.
A new study suggests creating quality measures for end-of-life care in nursing homes to inform consumers and incentivize improvements. The study proposes two quality measures: hospital transfer rates and hospice care usage, which can be calculated from existing data.
A new study by Brown University researchers reveals that Medicare spends significantly more on hospitalizations before patients enter a nursing home, with an average cost of $29,743 per patient. Once the patient becomes a permanent resident, costs drop to under $19,000. The study suggests that reducing hospitalizations before nursing h...
A statewide survey of Missouri nursing homes found nearly 90% of residents and family members satisfied with care facilities. The survey highlighted improvements made by administrators to deliver homelike care, leading to excellent ratings for quality of life, care, and service.
A study found that seven out of eight people who contacted a telenurse helpline followed their self-care advice, with satisfaction and confidence playing key roles. The researchers believe this confirms nurse triage helplines as a cost-effective method for addressing self-care needs.
A new UCLA study found that a widely used assessment tool for community health centers may not accurately measure the quality of diabetes care. The study examined 30 Los Angeles County health centers and found no correlation between the tool's scores and the actual quality of care.
A new study from VCU researchers found that a managed care plan can reduce the cost of caring for the uninsured population who gain coverage through the Affordable Care Act. The study showed that emergency department visits and inpatient admissions declined, while primary care visits increased during the seven-year period.
A recent study found that the number of deaths at home in the UK has increased significantly since 2004, with more than one-fifth of total deaths occurring at home. The trend reversal is particularly notable among those aged 85 and over, who are now dying at home more often than ever before.
As the US healthcare system faces significant challenges with multimorbidity, research articles and policy briefs offer solutions to improve care for patients with multiple chronic conditions. A study found that primary care attributes like comprehensiveness and patient-centeredness are associated with lower mortality rates.
A new study published in the Journal of the American College of Surgeons found that African-Americans, Hispanics, and uninsured patients use fewer post-hospitalization services after traumatic injury. Notably, Hispanic patients were far less likely to utilize post-hospitalization facilities and services regardless of insurance status.
A new study published in Age and Ageing found that timely acute care immediately after a stroke can significantly reduce the level of disability in survivors, as well as the need for long-term care. The study estimated the total cost of stroke and TIA in Ireland to be €500-€816 million in 2007.
The study found that the nation's largest for-profit chains operate with significantly lower staffing levels than non-profit and government-owned nursing homes, leading to poorer quality of care. The top 10 chains have a strategy of keeping labor costs low to increase profits, resulting in more deficiencies and serious deficiencies.
A Johns Hopkins study found that mobile clinics and home visits had minimal effects on improving disease outcomes among low-income, inner-city children with asthma. The programs showed some improvement in symptom-free days, but these benefits were short-lived and not sustained over time.
A new study reveals that nearly 40% of seniors receiving home health care are taking potentially inappropriate medications, often due to inadequate communication between physicians. The study highlights the need for improved medication coordination and enhanced physician communication in home health care settings.
The study found that newly qualified nurses, midwives, and AHPs reported increased clinical skills development and confidence after completing the online course. However, mentors needed more training and time to provide support, with many respondents reporting a lack of time for both students and mentors.
A new study published in The Lancet found that children treated at home for severe pneumonia by Pakistan's Lady Health Workers were more likely to recover than those referred to health facilities. Treatment failures occurred 50% less often in the experimental group, resulting in significant reductions in child mortality rates.
A new international health survey found that chronically ill US adults who received care from a medical home were less likely to report medical errors and had better relationships with their doctors. In contrast, the US stood out for having the highest rates of cost-related access problems and medical bill burdens.
A recent study found that home nursing visits are as safe and effective as office-based care for initial post-delivery well-baby check-ups, reducing the risk of missed appointments. Home visits also provide modest benefits, including increased breastfeeding rates and maternal confidence in parenting skills.
A new study by St. Michael's Hospital and ICES found that nearly half of Ontario seniors do not see dentists regularly, increasing their risk of chronic diseases and a reduced quality of life. The researchers highlight the importance of prevention and health promotion to help older women remain active and independent as they age.
A recent study found that teenage girls and senior students suffered high levels of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) after a major earthquake. The research suggests that young people, particularly those aged 16+, require prompt psychological support to avoid long-term mental health problems.
A recent study reveals that nearly half of physician practices in the US do not meet national standards for 'medical homes', a model of care that aims to provide higher quality and cost-efficient care. The lack of access to these medical homes disproportionately affects vulnerable populations, including those living below the poverty l...
A study found that whistleblowing can lead to overwhelming distress, nightmares, and loss of confidence among nurses. The research highlights the need for healthcare organizations to provide ongoing care and support for whistleblowers.
Research at children's hospitals found high compliance with asthma care measures but not associated with lower emergency department usage or readmissions. The CAC-3 measure set evaluates home management plans, which may need refinement for better outcomes.
A new study reveals that nursing homes often prioritize treating residents with private insurance over those with Medicaid, resulting in higher hospitalization rates and unnecessary care. Medicaid residents are 27% more likely to be hospitalized than private-pay residents, highlighting the financial incentives driving these decisions.
A national study found that Medicare patients discharged to skilled nursing facilities are at high risk of needing long-term care. The study suggests that programs aimed at helping older patients recover at home could improve their health outcomes and reduce healthcare costs.
A study found that almost 60% of people who have a stroke experience one or more falls afterwards, with most occurring in their own homes. To address this risk, experts recommend proactive measures such as assessments to create fall-proof homes and post-stroke rehabilitation to test balance and learn exercises to prevent falls.
A study of two small group living care homes in the Netherlands found that residents felt at home, maintained their identity, and benefited from family involvement. The domestic environment and normal daily activities provided stability and clarity.
The study finds wide variation in state performance on long-term services and supports, with top-performing states still facing challenges. States can improve by adopting policies shown to provide better outcomes, and all states need to vastly improve areas such as home care and support for family caregivers.
Chronic pain affects an estimated 500,000 Canadians aged 12-44 and 38% of seniors living at home, highlighting the need for better care strategies. Experts recommend a broad approach to increase pain management expertise through education, technology, and supported self-care.
People with Parkinson's disease who see a neurologist are more likely to live longer, less likely to be placed in a nursing home, and have fewer hip fractures. The study also found disparities in access to care based on gender and ethnicity.
Research from the University of Michigan Medical School found that children with public health insurance are 22% less likely to have a medical home, a model for pediatric primary care. Despite this, over 90% of publicly-insured children reported having a usual source of medical care.
A new patient-centered medical home (PCMH) model has shown significant improvement in diabetes management, increasing adherence to evidence-based care guidelines and clinical outcomes. The study found a notable increase in patients receiving essential services such as yearly exams and vaccinations, leading to better health outcomes.
A new study by Brown University finds that minorities are gaining access to nursing home care, but often due to lack of alternative options. The research suggests a racial disparity in elder care, with whites more likely to use desirable alternatives.
A literature review published by the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons found that many fall prevention initiatives used in healthcare facilities are ineffective in preventing hospital falls. The study suggests that hospitals may not be able to prevent most falls due to various risk factors beyond their control.
A Dutch study published in CMAJ found that multidisciplinary integrated care in residential care facilities resulted in better quality of care for seniors with complex health needs. The study showed improved functional ability, reduced hospital admissions, and enhanced health-related quality of life among participants.
A Canadian study suggests doctors may be overprescribing antibiotics for home-care patients, with younger and sicker individuals being at a higher risk of misuse. The most common class of antibiotics prescribed was fluoroquinolones, which could weaken their efficacy against emerging infections.
Researchers found that nurse-led transitional care programs can improve health outcomes and reduce hospital readmissions for chronically ill patients. Successful programs rely on nurses, often master's prepared, to prevent medical errors and ensure continuity of care.
The study found a significant rise in US home births between 2004 and 2008, driven primarily by an increase in non-Hispanic white women's choices. Home birth rates for other groups remained low or showed little change.
Parents with limited English proficiency have a longer hospital stay and fewer home health care referrals compared to those who speak fluent English. The study found that 39 out of 1,257 pediatric patients had LEP, resulting in median hospital stays of 6.1 days vs 4.0 days for proficient patients.
A lack of national pharmacare in Canada leads to inconsistent coverage and prevents people from accessing necessary medications. The country could save billions by implementing a national formulary and addressing rising drug costs.
The ESHRE Guide aims to ensure equitable and safe assisted reproduction treatment for local and foreign patients. Key principles include patient-centeredness, timeliness, and effectiveness, with recommendations on translator costs, donor compensation, and recruitment criteria.
A study of Medicare beneficiaries found that the length of hospital stay after hip replacement surgery decreased over time, while the proportion of patients discharged home declined and those sent to skilled care facilities increased. Readmission rates also rose after hip replacement surgery.
Implementing ACOs effectively has the potential to achieve better care, population health, and lower costs. The Commission's recommendations for ACOs include strong primary care foundation, accountability for quality, informed patients, commitment to serving the community, and innovative payment methods.
A study comparing US and UK ICU admissions found that UK patients were sicker upon admission, while US patients required more continuing care after discharge. Hospital mortality rates varied between the countries due to differences in healthcare systems and discharge practices.
A reformed Medicaid program must prioritize coordinated primary care to ensure access and sustainability. The American College of Physicians recommends various improvements, including increased payment rates, reduced administrative burdens, and expanded long-term care options.
A University of Missouri nursing expert emphasizes the complexity of hospital discharge processes for older adults, citing stress, fear, and lack of understanding as common complications. Effective care requires open communication among families, patients, and healthcare providers.