Articles tagged with Medical Economics
Comprehensive exploration of living organisms, biological systems, and life processes across all scales from molecules to ecosystems. Encompasses cutting-edge research in biology, genetics, molecular biology, ecology, biochemistry, microbiology, botany, zoology, evolutionary biology, genomics, and biotechnology. Investigates cellular mechanisms, organism development, genetic inheritance, biodiversity conservation, metabolic processes, protein synthesis, DNA sequencing, CRISPR gene editing, stem cell research, and the fundamental principles governing all forms of life on Earth.
Comprehensive medical research, clinical studies, and healthcare sciences focused on disease prevention, diagnosis, and treatment. Encompasses clinical medicine, public health, pharmacology, epidemiology, medical specialties, disease mechanisms, therapeutic interventions, healthcare innovation, precision medicine, telemedicine, medical devices, drug development, clinical trials, patient care, mental health, nutrition science, health policy, and the application of medical science to improve human health, wellbeing, and quality of life across diverse populations.
Comprehensive investigation of human society, behavior, relationships, and social structures through systematic research and analysis. Encompasses psychology, sociology, anthropology, economics, political science, linguistics, education, demography, communications, and social research methodologies. Examines human cognition, social interactions, cultural phenomena, economic systems, political institutions, language and communication, educational processes, population dynamics, and the complex social, cultural, economic, and political forces shaping human societies, communities, and civilizations throughout history and across the contemporary world.
Fundamental study of the non-living natural world, matter, energy, and physical phenomena governing the universe. Encompasses physics, chemistry, earth sciences, atmospheric sciences, oceanography, materials science, and the investigation of physical laws, chemical reactions, geological processes, climate systems, and planetary dynamics. Explores everything from subatomic particles and quantum mechanics to planetary systems and cosmic phenomena, including energy transformations, molecular interactions, elemental properties, weather patterns, tectonic activity, and the fundamental forces and principles underlying the physical nature of reality.
Practical application of scientific knowledge and engineering principles to solve real-world problems and develop innovative technologies. Encompasses all engineering disciplines, technology development, computer science, artificial intelligence, environmental sciences, agriculture, materials applications, energy systems, and industrial innovation. Bridges theoretical research with tangible solutions for infrastructure, manufacturing, computing, communications, transportation, construction, sustainable development, and emerging technologies that advance human capabilities, improve quality of life, and address societal challenges through scientific innovation and technological progress.
Study of the practice, culture, infrastructure, and social dimensions of science itself. Addresses how science is conducted, organized, communicated, and integrated into society. Encompasses research funding mechanisms, scientific publishing systems, peer review processes, academic ethics, science policy, research institutions, scientific collaboration networks, science education, career development, research programs, scientific methods, science communication, and the sociology of scientific discovery. Examines the human, institutional, and cultural aspects of scientific enterprise, knowledge production, and the translation of research into societal benefit.
Comprehensive study of the universe beyond Earth, encompassing celestial objects, cosmic phenomena, and space exploration. Includes astronomy, astrophysics, planetary science, cosmology, space physics, astrobiology, and space technology. Investigates stars, galaxies, planets, moons, asteroids, comets, black holes, nebulae, exoplanets, dark matter, dark energy, cosmic microwave background, stellar evolution, planetary formation, space weather, solar system dynamics, the search for extraterrestrial life, and humanity's efforts to explore, understand, and unlock the mysteries of the cosmos through observation, theory, and space missions.
Comprehensive examination of tools, techniques, methodologies, and approaches used across scientific disciplines to conduct research, collect data, and analyze results. Encompasses experimental procedures, analytical methods, measurement techniques, instrumentation, imaging technologies, spectroscopic methods, laboratory protocols, observational studies, statistical analysis, computational methods, data visualization, quality control, and methodological innovations. Addresses the practical techniques and theoretical frameworks enabling scientists to investigate phenomena, test hypotheses, gather evidence, ensure reproducibility, and generate reliable knowledge through systematic, rigorous investigation across all areas of scientific inquiry.
Study of abstract structures, patterns, quantities, relationships, and logical reasoning through pure and applied mathematical disciplines. Encompasses algebra, calculus, geometry, topology, number theory, analysis, discrete mathematics, mathematical logic, set theory, probability, statistics, and computational mathematics. Investigates mathematical structures, theorems, proofs, algorithms, functions, equations, and the rigorous logical frameworks underlying quantitative reasoning. Provides the foundational language and tools for all scientific fields, enabling precise description of natural phenomena, modeling of complex systems, and the development of technologies across physics, engineering, computer science, economics, and all quantitative sciences.
The UH College of Pharmacy is expanding its graduate program to offer a Doctor of Philosophy and Master of Science in Population Health & Pharmacoepidemiology, addressing a growing demand for training in evaluating medication safety and effectiveness.
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 recent University of Michigan study analyzed over 60 million Medicare participants and found that total visits remained stable or declined slightly through June 2024. Despite widespread adoption of telehealth, overall healthcare visits stayed steady or decreased, contradicting predictions of increased utilization.
A new digital and legally binding fingerprint developed at the University of Copenhagen makes products impossible to counterfeit. Royal Copenhagen is among the first brands in the world to use this solution, resulting in immediate transparency across their distribution chain.
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.
Researchers found that over half of IVF cycles in the US were performed at clinics affiliated with private equity firms, sparking concerns about the impact on quality and accessibility. The study's authors emphasize the need for further research to understand the benefits and risks of this business model.
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 2024 report shows improved care quality and accessibility across China, with a rise in early gastrointestinal cancer detection and improved colonoscopy quality indicators. Despite progress, regional disparities persist and costly treatments for IBD remain a challenge.
Research found that the federal earned income tax credit decreases rates of intimate partner violence, particularly among low-educated and unmarried women. The study revealed a 9.73% decrease in physical and sexual violence and a 21% decline in counts of such violence.
A recent study found that accelerated cancer drug approvals provided limited survival benefits for patients, while costing Medicare billions of dollars. The research, published in BMJ Medicine, analyzed the costs and benefits of early access to new cancer drugs through the FDA's accelerated approval pathway.
Researchers have launched a new multimodal medical dataset, Observer, capturing anonymized, real-time interactions between patients and clinicians. The dataset links video, audio, transcripts, and electronic health records to study subtleties like body language and environmental factors affecting care.
A study published in the journal Children found that improving access to safe drinking water can reduce the odds of stunting by about 20%. The researchers analyzed data from over 3,500 children and found that clean water access had a stronger impact on child growth than sanitation.
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.
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.
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.
A qualitative study found that physician responses to patient expectations contribute to pay gaps among Canadian physicians, particularly women, racialized, and immigrant physicians. Researchers suggest adjusting compensation models for extra time required for certain care types and examining fee schedules for underpaid services.
A new study ranks 38 OECD countries on their progress toward global health goals, finding that some of the world's wealthiest nations lag behind smaller economies. Nations with well-integrated public health systems and preventative care achieve better outcomes for every pound spent.
The Leopoldina discussion paper recommends realigning German development cooperation to focus on both prevention and medical treatment for childhood blindness. The approach, called 'Global Clinical Care', aims to strengthen local care capacities and provide training for ophthalmic specialists through institutional partnerships.
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 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 recent study published in CANCER found that the number and complexity of cancer clinical trials have varied greatly across low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) since 2001. While economic growth has been a contributing factor, it is not the sole determinant of cancer clinical trial growth among LMICs.
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.
A new RNA-based therapy targeting Marfan syndrome shows promise in treating the genetic disorder, which can lead to aortic aneurysms and be fatal. The therapy, developed by Mizzou researcher Dunpeng Cai, aims to correct mutated RNA for those with Marfan syndrome.
Kipum Lee, PhD, has been promoted to President of UH Ventures, succeeding David Sylvan. He will drive revenue growth and margin improvement through business opportunities aligned with UH's enterprise strategy.
The 340B program has grown into the nation's second-largest drug purchasing program, with significant revenue generated from spread pricing, which disproportionately benefits providers with more commercially insured patients. Eliminating this distorted incentive is essential to ensuring safety-net providers receive benefits.
Researchers have quantified the costs of e-scooter injuries for the first time in Ireland, revealing an average cost of €1,726 per patient. The study found that e-scooter injuries mainly resulted in musculoskeletal injuries requiring major surgery, resulting in significant financial burdens on healthcare services.
A recent study at UC San Diego Health found that virtual transition of care clinics lower hospital readmissions for high-risk patients by 14.9%. The clinic provides immediate post-hospital care, reducing no-show rates and improving patient outcomes.
Research at UCLA Health Sciences found that high-markup hospitals charge up to 17 times the true cost of care, resulting in poorer patient outcomes, including higher complication and readmission rates. Patients treated at these hospitals often experience financial toxicity or medical bankruptcy.
A portable device using machine learning can detect signs of concussions in real-time, providing a more objective way to assess injuries. The Mizzou Point-of-Care Assessment System combines a force plate, depth camera and interface board to track movement, balance and reaction times.
The University of Bergen's 'Fair Choices on the Path to Universal Health Coverage' project aims to strengthen low- and middle-income countries in handling cuts in development aid. The project will improve priority setting through evidence-informed, context-specific approaches, collaborating with academic institutions and governing bodi...
Researchers at Children's Hospital of Philadelphia developed a quality improvement initiative to increase dental varnish application rates. The effort resulted in a significant boost in varnish use, with over 50% of children receiving varnish annually, exceeding the target goal of 20%.
A new white paper from the USC Schaeffer Center recommends FDA reforms to streamline clinical trials, provide clearer guidance on newer technologies, and improve agency efficiency. This could reduce development time and costs, pushing down prices and improving patient access.
Duke-NUS Medical School is sharpening its focus on population health, driven by the need to address rising healthcare costs and chronic diseases in Singapore. The Health Services Research and Population Health (HSRPH) Programme aims to deliver scalable, cost-effective solutions that improve patient outcomes and inform national policies.
A study by Mass General Brigham researchers found that the law significantly reduced out-of-pocket costs, but high burden medical spending remained unchanged. The findings suggest that additional policy efforts are needed to reduce healthcare-related financial burden, particularly among socioeconomically disadvantaged populations.
A modest gift card significantly increased enrollment of low-income individuals in a patient registry designed to accelerate Alzheimer’s disease clinical trials. Targeted outreach may be more cost-effective than offering larger prizes.
A new study by Michigan Medicine University of Michigan researchers concludes that broad COVID-19 vaccination in adults saves the US more money than it spends, with significant economic benefits for those over 65 and middle-aged adults. The model focuses on preventing deaths, hospitalizations, and lost productivity.
The book explores innovative computing technologies transforming healthcare delivery, diagnostics, and monitoring. It covers topics like artificial intelligence, machine learning, IoT, wearable devices, and real-time communication systems.
A new study published in JAMA Health Forum suggests that Medicare could save $3.6 billion annually by eliminating or reducing low-value tests and procedures for patients who do not benefit from them. This reduction in unnecessary care could also result in $800 million less in out-of-pocket costs for older adults.
A study evaluates a city-level warning system based on wastewater data to detect COVID-19 outbreaks early. The proposed system offers broader coverage, earlier outbreak detection, and lower costs compared to clinical surveillance.
A new study reveals that inadequate leisure-time aerobic physical activity accounts for $192 billion in annual healthcare costs among US adults. The Physical Activity Alliance is calling for cross-sector action to address the crisis and make physical activity a regular part of daily life.
A new study by the University of Birmingham found that Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) has a significant impact on the UK economy, with average annual costs exceeding £14,781 per person. The total economic burden is estimated to be around £40 billion, which is expected to rise further due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
A new study from the University of Kansas found that high levels of social infrastructure are associated with healthier communities. Communities with higher levels of social, human, and cultural capital also had better health outcomes.
Two studies from University of Michigan researchers suggest many older adults and people with disabilities need more impartial help picking the best Medicare plan. Only about 13% of enrollees switch plans annually, and even fewer use the internet to research options.
A new analysis finds that delinking PBM compensation from list prices could lower US annual drug spending by nearly $100 billion. Shifting to a transparent payment model would reduce costs without undermining pharmaceutical innovation, according to USC Schaeffer Center Director Geoffrey Joyce.
A recent study by Florida Atlantic University reveals that up to 40% of hospital transfers from nursing homes can be avoided. The study identified common medical conditions linked to unnecessary hospitalizations, including feeding tube complications and urinary tract infections.
A study analyzed the campaign by Partnership for America's Health Care Future, a private health industry lobby group, and found it used similar marketing strategies as unhealthy commodity industries to manufacture doubt about universal healthcare policies. The campaign received millions of views on Meta platforms and targeted specific ...
A survey of over 2,200 US adults found that majority incorrectly believe plant-based diets are more expensive, with baby boomers being the most likely to think so. A diet centered on whole, minimally processed plant foods can be affordable and nourishing.
A new gene therapy delivery device called NANOSPRESSO could revolutionize how hospitals treat rare diseases by allowing them to create personalized nanomedicines in-house. This democratized approach to precision medicine could boost access to low-cost bespoke gene and RNA therapies, especially in low-resource settings.
Most Medicare beneficiaries will likely see their drug costs go up due to Part D plans' shifting cost-sharing burden. The new $2,000 annual out-of-pocket limit won't reach most beneficiaries, leading to higher deductibles and coinsurance for many.
A survey of 261 new fathers found that 64% took less than two weeks of leave, while 36% took more than two weeks. The main barrier was fear of losing their job. Paid leave would reduce barriers and increase take-up. Involving dads in childcare from the start is crucial for healthy outcomes.
A new study published in JRSM Open found that healthcare workers born overseas, particularly those from Asian and Black backgrounds, are less likely to reach higher pay bands under the NHS Agenda for Change framework. This is despite education and job role being adjusted for.
A new study found that problems with accessing high-quality care were a major driver for switching Medicare Advantage plans, not cost concerns. Dissatisfaction with medical care access was more common among those in poor health, and those who enrolled in MA plans with low star ratings were also more likely to switch.
Researchers analyzed trends in healthcare utilization among Japan's oldest-old population aged 75 years and above during the extended COVID-19 pandemic. The analysis revealed a modest drop in medical services and outpatient visits, while healthcare costs remained stable despite decreased patient volumes.
Clinician entrepreneurs face numerous barriers, including lack of market fit, risk aversion, and financing challenges. To overcome these obstacles, the authors recommend clinician entrepreneurship programs that provide business expertise and create academic recognition for successful companies.
A research team from the University of Copenhagen has developed a biotechnological method to produce Taxol, a widely used cancer drug. The new method involves cloning taxol-producing genes and inserting them into yeast cells, making it more cost-effective and sustainable than traditional chemical synthesis.
Research found that workforce participation among people with diabetes remains low, despite significant health improvements, due to factors like health complications and workplace barriers. The study suggests expanded access to anti-obesity medications could have positive effects on the labor market.
New research by ESMT Berlin reveals that hospitals acquired by private equity firms significantly reduce costs and administrative staff without harming patient care. The study finds improved operational profitability while sustaining essential medical staff levels over the long term.
Retail pharmacies excluded from Medicare Part D networks faced a higher risk of closure over the past decade, with independent and minority-owned pharmacies more likely to be affected. The study found that pharmacy benefit managers (PBMs) were contributing to this problem by steering beneficiaries away from non-preferred pharmacies.
A new analysis predicts that reducing Medicaid access could lead to thousands of additional deaths among working-age Americans and disastrous financial burdens. The study found that eliminating the ACA provision expanding Medicaid access could drive millions to delay needed care.
The American College of Chest Physicians has released a new clinical guideline on the transfusion of fresh frozen plasma and platelets in critically ill adults. The guideline contains seven evidence-based recommendations to reduce unnecessary transfusions, which are rarely needed prior to bedside procedures.