Medical Economics
Articles tagged with Medical Economics
Telemedicine adoption, US ambulatory visits, and total medical spending, 2019-2023
A nationwide study found no significant association between telemedicine adoption and changes in US ambulatory visits or total medical spending. The expansion of telemedicine has eased concerns about increased utilization and spending, as the growth did not lead to large increases in these areas.
UofL breaks ground on $280-million facility for health education and collaboration
The Health Sciences Building will serve as a nexus of learning, engagement, and research for UofL's four health sciences schools and the community. The building features extensive medical simulation facilities, dedicated spaces for learning, research, and work.
Hormone health climbs the policy agenda as endocrine leaders meet for European Society of Endocrinology’s first Summit of the Presidents
The summit brought together endocrine leaders to identify opportunities to work closely together on increasing the visibility of endocrine health in policy decisions. Early findings from a workforce survey revealed challenges including long patient waiting times and retention concerns among early-career clinicians.
International availability and price of ultraexpensive drugs in Medicare Part D
A cohort study found that ultraexpensive drugs in Medicare Part D have limited international availability, highlighting their fiscal significance. Internationally unavailable products often result in higher spending per beneficiary.
Losing a parent in adulthood can affect earnings for years through mental health and family support, Oxford study finds
A new study from the University of Oxford suggests that losing a parent in adulthood can have lasting effects on earnings and mental health. Women with young children experience a larger earnings decline due to the loss of informal childcare.
Medicaid expansion helped enrollees’ long-term financial health, study finds
A new study found that Michigan Medicaid expansion helped enrollees significantly reduce their medical debt in collections by up to 75% within seven years of enrollment. Additionally, the study shows substantial drops in sub-prime credit scores, improving financial stability and long-term health outcomes.
Millions suffering needlessly with curable hepatitis C, new analysis reveals
A new analysis found that prescriptions for curable hepatitis C drugs have declined sharply in recent years, leaving millions without treatment. The researchers urge swift actions to deliver the drugs to those who need them, including increased screening and system-level changes.
Quitting tobacco could give major economic uplift to 20 million + households in India
A study estimates that quitting tobacco could give a major economic uplift to over 20 million households in India, with the greatest impact felt in rural areas and among the poorest households. The analysis suggests that these households would receive a significant boost in income, potentially moving up one or two economic classes.
New AI technology to speed drug development
Scientists at the University of Virginia Health System have developed a suite of AI-powered tools, called YuelDesign, YuelPocket and YuelBond, to transform how new drugs are created. These tools can design drug molecules tailored to fit their protein targets exactly, even accounting for protein flexibility.
Can long-term care insurance provide end-of-life cost and health benefits?
Public long-term care insurance in China's pilot program cuts catastrophic health spending by up to 52%, shifting care away from costly medical interventions. This model offers a powerful alternative for value-based end-of-life care.
Depression can reduce income for years
A new study from the University of Southern Denmark finds that people with depression experience significant income loss, with losses averaging 17% lower than those without depression. Income loss persists and grows over time, even after diagnosis.
Alliance marks Adolescent and Young Adult Cancer Awareness Week
The Alliance for Clinical Trials in Oncology is enrolling adolescent and young adult cancer patients in various trials, including genetic services and treatment studies. These trials aim to address longstanding gaps in care and improve outcomes for AYAs with cancer.
Medicare spending implications for semaglutide under voluntary price agreements
A lower semaglutide price could generate savings that offset the cost of treating an additional 550,000 to 3.6 million Medicare beneficiaries eligible for expanded obesity-indication coverage. This voluntary price agreement may lead to substantial savings for Medicare spending on semaglutide treatment.
Study: An Oregon policy required hospitals to offer more financial assistance. Medical debt plummeted
A new study by Tulane University found that Oregon's hospital financial assistance policy significantly reduced medical debt in collections. The policy was associated with 872-1,180 fewer people per county having medical debt in collections, and increased charity care spending.
Long-term trends in pediatric self-injury in high-income countries
A systematic review of 42 studies reveals a rising trend in self-injury among children and youth in high-income countries, with significant variability across countries. The findings highlight the need for effective, contextually informed prevention strategies to curb this growing concern.
Does online sports gambling affect substance use behaviors?
A new study found that legalizing online sports betting in the US has led to a significant rise in binge drinking frequency among young men, particularly those who already report binge drinking. The study's findings highlight the need for policymakers to consider the broader behavioral impacts of gambling liberalization.
Foreign aid cuts to tuberculosis services could cost families $80 billion worldwide
A new study warns that reduced international funding for tuberculosis services could lead to significant economic hardship for 40 million households globally, with the poorest households bearing the greatest burden. The study estimates that complete elimination of external funding for TB could cost families up to $80 billion annually.
How AI is integrated into clinical workflow lowers medical liability perception
A study found that radiologists who reviewed imaging tests twice after AI flagged them as abnormal were 53% less likely to be held liable in court compared to those who reviewed once. This suggests that changes to radiologist workflow could reduce legal risk, but may also come with increased costs.
Study confirms food fortification is highly cost-effective in fighting hidden hunger across 63 countries
A comprehensive systematic review found that large-scale food fortification is a highly cost-effective intervention for reducing global malnutrition, with benefits far outweighing costs. The study analyzed 56 studies from 63 countries and found that fortification programs deliver substantial health benefits relative to costs.
Online doctors – popular but price-sensitive for young people
A study by the University of Gothenburg found that young adults are more likely to consume healthcare through online apps, especially when no patient fees are charged. Women tend to have higher consultation rates than men, who experience a sharper decline in consultations once they turn 20.
Reduced international donor funding associated with higher household economic burden of Tuberculosis in low- and middle-income countries, according to modelling study
A modelling study suggests that reduced international donor funding increases the household economic burden of tuberculosis in low- and middle-income countries. The research found that decreased funding leads to a significant rise in healthcare costs and lost productivity.
Telemedicine visits cost 5x less than office visits
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.
As health care goes digital, patients are being left behind
A new study by UCSF found that most healthcare systems are neglecting to ask patients if they have access and skills to use digital tools, despite increasing online care demands. The lack of assessment is particularly concerning for uninsured patients, who often experience worse health outcomes.
How well are international guidelines followed for certain medications for high-risk pregnancies?
A study found that international guidelines for preterm delivery are often not followed, leading to varying levels of exposure to life-saving medications. In high-income countries, there were significant discrepancies in the use of these treatments.
Medicaid disenrollment spikes at age 19, study finds
A study found that 13.4% of young adults with complex medical conditions were disenrolled from Medicaid at age 19, compared to 35.6% without such conditions. The study highlights the significant impact of coverage disruptions on health outcomes for medically complex patients.
Medicare patients get different stroke care depending on plan, analysis reveals
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.
How does universal, free prescription drug coverage affect older adults’ finances and behaviors?
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.
UCLA report reveals a significant global palliative care gap among children
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...
China’s 2025 roadmap for building critical care systems: New national guidelines published in Journal of Intensive Medicine
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.
New research delves into strengthening radiology education during a time of workforce shortages and financial constraints
A new JACR focus issue explores alternative approaches to resident education, radiology residency applications, and investing in pre-clinical medical education. The study aims to spark meaningful dialogue around how radiology education is valued, supported, and delivered amidst economic challenges.
UH College of Pharmacy expands degree plans to offer doctorate and master of science in population health & pharmacoepidemiology
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.
When specialization creates exclusion: the dangers of a compartmentalized medical system
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.
With telehealth coverage on the brink, study shows it hasn’t driven up total visits
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.
Danish chemist's invention could make counterfeiting a thing of the past
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.
Costs pose hurdle for promising new hepatitis C lab test
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.
Examining private equity’s role in fertility care
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.
Oxford-led study estimates NHS spends around 3% of its primary and secondary care budget on the health impacts of heat and cold in England
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.
China’s 2024 Gastroenterology Report: marked progress in endoscopy quality and disease management
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.
Federal EITC has unexpected result, researchers say – it decreases domestic violence
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.
Accelerated cancer drug approvals deliver limited survival gains at high cost
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.
New video dataset to advance AI for health care
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.
Clean water access improves child health in Mozambique, study shows
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.
Rising complexity in pediatric patients is reshaping hospital care
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.
New federal loan caps could disrupt the medical field, study finds
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.
Data-driven surgical supply lists can reduce hospital cost and waste
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.
Physician responses to patient expectations affect their income
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.
The world’s healthiest countries aren’t the richest, according to new study
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.
Childhood blindness: Leopoldina discussion paper recommends realignment of prevention and medical treatment in development cooperation
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.
Caution advised with corporate virtual care 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...
Home treatment with IV antibiotics could relieve NHS pressure
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.
Michigan organization saved Medicare nearly $35 million in 2024 while delivering high-quality care
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.
What is the extent of disparities in cancer clinical trials among low- and middle-income countries?
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.
A potential game-changer: Mizzou researcher creating a new way to treat genetic disorders
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, named President of University Hospitals Ventures
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.
Reform of federal drug discount program should target misaligned incentives
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.
‘Staggering’ costs of e-scooter injuries are quantified for the first time for hospitals in Ireland
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.
Study finds virtual clinics lower hospital readmissions
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.
“High-markup” hospitals are overwhelmingly for-profit, located in large metropolitan areas and have the worst 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.
Taking the guesswork out of concussion assessments
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.