Articles tagged with Medical Economics
The Safe Childbirth Checklist, adapted for local needs, increased communication of danger signs, improved baby feeding practices, and reduced stillbirth rates in Indonesian health facilities. The study suggests that long-term adherence to the tool requires continued support for midwives.
A new analysis proposes four solutions states can implement to improve Medicaid eligibility for seniors, including eliminating the asset test or increasing its limit. This could lead to lower administrative burdens and improved health outcomes for eligible individuals.
A recent review reveals alarming increase in physician burnout among diagnostic radiologists, with causes including lack of control, social isolation and technological demands. Possible solutions include heightened engagement, dedicated reading room assistants and mindfulness techniques.
Between 2015 and 2019, Medicare spending on drugs with an accelerated approval indication more than doubled, reaching $9.1 billion in 2019, primarily driven by Part B drugs. The study's findings highlight the growing concern of rapidly increasing costs associated with these medications.
Researchers at West Virginia University have developed a wood boiler system that improves bird health and reduces carbon dioxide emissions by drying litter and creating dry heat. The system has the potential to replace propane heating systems in poultry farms, benefiting both animal welfare and the environment.
A new RAND Corporation report suggests that extending temporary tax credits could help insurance markets in the future. Analysis found that current federal legislative proposals could be critical to avoiding coverage loss in future recessions.
Research highlights the intersection of poverty and racism in exacerbating US public health disparities. The US has a high rate of poverty despite collective wealth, disproportionately affecting communities of color. Beech emphasizes the need for policies to increase access to care and address institutionalized racism.
Case management programs help health practitioners address patients' social needs, such as housing and economic insecurity. However, several barriers hinder their effective implementation, including engaging community-based organizations and ensuring program sustainability.
A new Digital Solutions Hub will provide a gateway to interconnected toolkits and resources, integrating existing data sources on pollution, flooding, biodiversity, geology, carbon capture, and environmental health. The hub aims to improve decision-making by providing cross-sectional data for informed decisions in various sectors.
A recent study found that Black, Hispanic, and Asian men are less likely to receive an MRI exam after a prostate-specific antigen (PSA) blood test. The study suggests racial and ethnic disparities in the use of prostate MRIs following elevated PSA results.
A study from the University of Texas at Dallas found that governments downplay pandemic severity if they prioritize economy over public health, while exaggerating it when prioritizing public health. The researchers suggest transparent information policies are key for balanced objectives.
US emergency department spending grew to $136.6 billion in 2016, with road injuries and falls accounting for the highest amount of ED spending. The study found that ED spending per visit increased at an annualized rate of 3.4% over the decade.
The study found that COVID-19 relief funds disproportionately went to hospitals in stronger financial situations, which later experienced the most COVID-19 cases. The analysis suggests a complex relationship between hospital funding and pandemic outcomes.
A new study found that most people maintain their pre-retirement level of social support after retirement, with women and those with high social support experiencing an improvement in mental wellbeing. The research also shows an increase in life satisfaction for couples where either the man or woman retired.
Researchers developed a reusable respirator hood that is significantly preferred by frontline healthcare workers and support staff due to its safety and comfort. The new PPE strategy has also led to cost savings and reduced environmental impact, with over 80% of staff requesting their respirators for future use.
A new study by Manasvini Singh found that physicians are more likely to switch between vaginal and cesarean deliveries based on their previous patients' experiences, potentially leading to sub-optimal patient health. The study analyzed 86,000 electronic health records and found a significant increase in the probability of a cesarean de...
A new study finds that bariatric surgery increased among lower-income white adults, but remained unchanged for Hispanic and Black adults following Medicaid expansion. The increase in weight-loss surgery rates is a significant finding with implications for health policy.
West Virginia University researchers aim to create better connections with underserved populations to the blue economy, which defines sustainable use of ocean resources. They will analyze data and explore ways to package it in a way that encourages these traditionally underserved groups to utilize the blue economy.
Researchers found that economic stability, relationship status, and educational status can lead to shifts in pregnancy intentions, with 22% of participants changing their mind within a year. The study aims to provide insight for healthcare providers to check in frequently about patients' desires.
A study found that individuals in occupations with high routine intensity are at risk of becoming unemployed, experiencing higher disability rates, and facing increased mortality. The research highlights the need for governments to assess opportunities for retraining and provide economic support to affected workers.
A University of Illinois study found that parental income has a lasting impact on children's health, with lower socioeconomic status linked to increased risk of obesity and related conditions. Permanent income is associated with parents' general socioeconomic conditions, while transitory peaks during adolescence can promote better health.
Mathematical modeling suggests that contact-tracing apps can help achieve herd immunity by identifying individuals with greater exposure to others and targeting them for vaccination. The approach, known as 'hot-spotting,' could reduce the number of vaccine doses needed by up to half.
Danish adults have made significant strides in preserving their natural teeth and visiting the dentist more frequently. However, social disparities in dental health persist, with those from lower-income backgrounds receiving less preventive care.
An Australian study found that trust in government approval of safe COVID-19 vaccines is the primary driver of vaccine uptake. Perceived effectiveness in protecting others was also a significant factor. The study revealed lower rates of vaccine uptake among younger, unemployed individuals and those with lower altruistic beliefs.
A team of NTU Singapore scientists developed a predictive computer model called NSGA-II, which proposed strategies to reduce COVID-19 infections and deaths by an average of 72%. The model recommended timely and country-specific advice on interventions such as home quarantines and social distancing measures.
Analysis of survey data reveals shifts in health care spending in different US population groups, with significant increases in prescription drug spending between 2001 and 2018. The study highlights the need for targeted interventions to address these trends and promote more equitable healthcare distribution.
The study found large reductions in uninsurance and improvements in blood pressure and blood sugar control among Hispanic and Black patients after Medicaid expansion. The first five years of expansion were associated with significant benefits for these populations.
Health journals call on governments to intervene and transform societies to limit global temperature increases, halt nature destruction, and protect health. Wealthy nations must do more, with substantial investment needed for positive health and economic benefits.
A national study shows that reducing US jail populations leads to community-wide public health benefits, as overcrowded facilities become 'infectious disease incubators' for COVID-19. Decarceration reduces the spread of SARS-CoV-2, benefiting both those released and communities nationwide.
Researchers found that seniors moving from low-mortality areas to high-mortality areas experience a significant decrease in life expectancy. On the other hand, urban areas on the East and West Coasts have positive effects on longevity for seniors, while Midwestern metro areas score well. The study also identified parts of the deep Sout...
During California's 2020-21 medical surge, a collaborative approach helped manage oxygen demand. The state developed a plan with backup systems to prevent pipeline freezing and shortage.
A recent study by MPIDR researchers found that participating in the labor market until age 67 slows cognitive decline and protects against cognitive impairment. This effect holds regardless of gender or educational/occupational attainment, with a slowed rate of cognitive decline rather than improved function.
A recent study found that introducing new airline routes leads to a 7.3% increase in kidneys sent to transplant centers across the US, while also reducing the discard rate of kidneys. This improved transportation infrastructure facilitates broader organ sharing and can help match supply and demand.
Researchers will track oral health behaviors and caries risk in low-income urban young children over five years, collecting data on caregiver-reported habits, dental plaque scores, and social risk factors. The study aims to understand the impact of community-level factors on individual behaviors.
Researchers found regional lockdowns did not sufficiently address local COVID-19 risk differences in Italy. Instead, targeted interventions focused on high-risk areas could help strike a better balance between public health and economic damage. The study provides guidance for policy-makers to design effective interventions.
The study suggests that COVID-19 eradication is technically possible due to the availability of safe vaccines, lifelong immunity, and effective government management. However, securing high vaccine coverage and responding quickly to variants are major challenges.
A new study by Virginia Commonwealth University quantifies the financial impact of sickle cell disease, revealing $15k in lost wages per year per person, totaling $650,000 over a lifetime. The research found that 97% of respondents experienced severe and debilitating pain attacks from sickle cell.
A review by RCSI University of Medicine and Health Sciences found that QI studies in Ireland enhanced multiple elements of healthcare quality, including effectiveness, efficiency, timeliness, and safety. The studies primarily focused on improving patient care and hospital operations.
A recent study by the American Cancer Society found a strong association between economic mobility and racial disparities in mortality in the US. The study suggests that structural racism has persisted with similar magnitude across generations, leading to increased death rates among Black individuals compared to their White counterparts.
The study found that democratic countries increased government health spending by $275 per person between 1990 and 2019, while autocratic countries saw only a $115 increase. Democracies are also more likely to maintain universal health coverage even during economic recessions.
A Japanese research team found that residents who engage in activities like camping and hiking experience increased happiness, while ownership has no effect. The study suggests better policies for enhancing forest relationships and measuring happiness based on the types of forest happiness.
A new £1.1 million research project will develop personalized rehabilitation programs for people with long Covid, which is estimated to affect at least 10% of those who test positive for Covid-19 in the UK. The project aims to improve outcomes and experiences for this growing patient group while ensuring cost-effectiveness.
A recent study conducted by MIT economists found that increasing nighttime sleep had no positive effects on work productivity, earnings, or overall sense of well-being among low-income workers in Chennai, India. However, short daytime naps did show significant improvements in these areas.
A significant minority of people in Kentucky's indoor public areas fail to wear masks correctly during the pandemic. The study found higher compliance rates in larger stores and affluent city districts. Men aged 40-60 are most likely to be unmasked or incorrectly masked.
Christopher Murray, a renowned physician and health economist, has been recognized for his significant contributions to global oral health. His work on the Global Burden of Disease project has led to improved understanding of the impact of dental diseases on disability-adjusted life-years worldwide.
Researchers found that the Mission Indradhanush program increased full immunization rates by 27% and the rate of receiving all vaccines at recommended ages by 8%. The program also improved vaccination rates for children who received treatment in multiple phases.
The article synthesizes lessons from primary care and behavioral health integration to inform organizing principles for advancing social care integration practices. This approach aims to improve the health of patients and communities by identifying and addressing their social and economic needs.
A Cornell University-led team projects that vehicle electrification, driverless cars, and ride sharing could prevent 5,500 premature deaths and save $58 billion annually in the US by 2050. The study also finds that vehicle electrification is the most important piece for carbon mitigations and health benefits.
A digital oral health approach aims to improve healthy behavior, lower risk factors, and reduce oral health inequalities. The use of digital tools has demonstrated potential in expanding oral healthcare access worldwide.
A family planning program in Bangladesh from 1977 to 2012 showed significant differences in lifetime contraceptive behavior and fertility among women. Women who participated in the program experienced increased body mass index compared to non-participants, particularly those born between 1950 and 1961.
A new study estimates surprise bills for deliveries and newborn hospitalizations are frequent, affecting thousands of families annually. Researchers found that out-of-network claims from clinicians and ancillary service providers are a leading cause of surprise bills.
Researchers found that counties hosting prisons experienced higher rates of COVID-19 cases due to spillover from prisons into surrounding communities. The study emphasizes the need for prioritizing prison health and public health policies to address this vulnerability.
Burnout is a significant issue in today's NHS, with 44% of staff reporting work-related stress. Improving staff health and wellbeing is crucial for the moral, social, and economic priority it represents.
A study by researchers from King's College London and IMIM found that 6.4% of Europeans suffer from depression, with higher rates in economically developed nations and varying rates across countries. The study suggests that demographic and socio-political factors contribute to the differences in prevalence.
A new study by Colorado State University Professor Silvia Sara Canetto found that men who engage in more family care work have lower suicide rates. The research suggests that men's underinvestment in family care work may contribute to their vulnerability to suicide, particularly during economic difficult circumstances.
A survey study found COVID-19 associated with significant economic security reductions among women at high risk of HIV infection in rural Kenya. Altered sexual behavior may have temporarily decreased their HIV risk.
A new study from Lund University in Sweden finds that universal school lunch programs have positive effects on students' height, health, education, and lifetime income. The program introduced free nutritious meals to all primary school students, resulting in a three percent higher lifetime income for participants.
Researchers found associations between Medicare Advantage star ratings and disparities in care for racial/ethnic minorities and lower-income enrollees. The study suggests that star ratings may not accurately reflect the quality of care provided to these populations.
A new study published in the American Journal of Lifestyle Medicine finds critical links between job loss and physical inactivity among young adults during the U.S. Great Recession. The study, led by Dickinson College economist Shamma Alam, found that job losses reduced the likelihood of physical exercise by 6.3 percentage points.
The coronavirus pandemic has led to significant changes in human health behavior worldwide. Experts in various fields discussed influencing factors and trends in the virtual panel discussion.