Articles tagged with Health Care Policy
A McMaster University research team found that a map-based recommendations website is more accessible and effective than traditional websites in distributing public health guidelines during crises.
Expanding medically tailored meal programs nationwide could help prevent 1.6 million hospitalizations annually, saving $13.6 billion in healthcare costs. These programs provide nutritionally customized meals for patients with serious illnesses, supporting improved health outcomes and reduced stress levels.
A cross-sectional survey found extensive inequities in postpartum care content, particularly for patients with multiple disadvantaged identities. The study highlights the need for further research on postpartum care visits to better address these disparities.
A survey of over 1,000 physicians found that 67% of respondents favored making telehealth a permanent option for treating opioid-use disorder. The study suggests that continued flexibility in telehealth regulations could help increase access to life-saving treatment, particularly during the ongoing opioid crisis.
A recent poll reveals that 48% of people aged 50-80 have purchased at least one home health test, including COVID-19 and DNA tests. Notably, 82% of older adults express interest in future medical tests at home, while 90% agree to share results with their healthcare provider.
A new study suggests that phone calls and video chats can help patients access care, especially for those with barriers to traditional in-person visits. The study found that veterans who received virtual visits were more likely to stay on buprenorphine treatment, but there were disparities by race, housing status, and age.
A study of over 4 million claims found that Black women had less access to new mammography technology, even when receiving mammograms at the same institution. The disparities in digital breast tomosynthesis use among Black and white women began to subside after 2016.
A new study found that caregivers, particularly women, experience higher odds of health-related vulnerabilities such as food insecurity and financial strain. Caregivers must balance their own lives with those of their dependents, finding ways to care for themselves while dedicating time to caring for loved ones.
Two studies reveal rising emergency department wait times and patient abandonment due to overcrowding, with 5% of hospitals experiencing over 10% patient abandonment and median boarding times reaching 3.4 hours nationally.
Researchers found that elderly Japanese individuals show a low immune response to the third mRNA COVID-19 booster vaccine. The study revealed that nearly 10% of participants had negligible antibody production despite receiving an additional dose. The findings suggest that elderly people may require specialized serological testing proto...
Researchers found significant regional differences in LTC spending, driven by factors such as population demographics and disability classification. Preventive measures may help reduce costs by reducing the need for long-term care.
A new Boston University School of Public Health study found that increasing mental health providers at Veterans Health Administration (VHA) facilities likely reduced suicide-related events among veterans who recently returned from active service. The study analyzed data from over 100,000 veterans and found a significant reduction in su...
New research from the University of Kansas found that two common federal survey question sets are missing significant numbers of individuals with psychiatric disabilities and chronic health conditions. The study suggests that these gaps indicate undercounting of disability funds, services, and healthcare resources.
The Endocrine Society advocates for a personalized approach to telehealth visits in endocrine care. This policy perspective highlights the benefits of incorporating telehealth into care plans, including increased convenience and reduced disparities in healthcare access.
A new study analyzes the benefits and harms of prior authorization policies in Medicare Advantage, highlighting their impact on patients and clinicians. The researchers propose several measures to improve the use of PA in Medicare, including electronic-based processes and enhanced transparency.
A Rutgers study found that racial and ethnic minorities with dementia receive more intensive end-of-life care. This disparity may be attributed to systemic racism, discrimination, or poor physician communication. The researchers suggest improving end-of-life care and outcomes for people with dementia through initiatives like advance ca...
Researchers from NAIST found that searches related to vaccine side effects positively correlated with vaccination rates in Japan. The 'vaccine concern index' captured searches of terms indicating vaccine hesitancy, revealing lower concerns among older people and female users.
Two new studies published in NEJM Catalyst demonstrate the remarkable effectiveness of telemedicine in addressing access barriers and improving health outcomes. The research highlights the benefits of telemedicine for patients with transportation challenges, mental health services, and overall quality of care.
A new study from Michigan Medicine found that adults with more chronic health conditions are at higher risk of serious financial problems, including late payments, poor credit scores, and bankruptcy. The study analyzed nearly 3 million privately insured adults and found that those with seven or more chronic conditions had three to four...
People with diabetes face higher risk of hospitalization during extreme heat events due to dehydration and blood glucose imbalance. Research reveals a link between extreme heat and emergency hospitalizations for hypo- and hyperglycemia-related conditions.
A new analysis found that increased Medicaid dental payment policies were associated with modest improvements in children's dental visits. The study also showed a link between the payment rates and better oral health outcomes for kids.
A study analyzing Eurobarometer surveys found that informal payments increased across EU states between 2013 and 2019, while public health expenditure was associated with fewer such payments. The researchers suggest strengthening health systems to combat corruption.
The current Medicaid sterilization waiting period for females is clinically unjustifiable, according to the authors, who argue for its revision. The US healthcare industry contributes significantly to greenhouse gas emissions, with a data-driven action plan proposed for carbon reduction.
During the pandemic, UChicago Medicine's Feed1st pantry program doubled its distribution rates, providing over 42,000 pounds of food to patients and staff. This open-access model maximizes dignity and facilitates use, increasing the likelihood that individuals in need will access food resources.
Researchers found that providing default alternatives and using ordering and partitioning together can improve consumer choice. This study aims to provide a more efficient way for consumers to make better decisions about healthcare products, ultimately improving health outcomes and the efficiency of the healthcare system.
The TCT MedTech Innovation Forum is an intensive summit bringing together clinicians, entrepreneurs, investors, and regulators to identify clinical challenges and drive innovation in medtech. The agenda features interdisciplinary perspectives on unmet clinical needs, financing, regulatory policy, and evolving healthcare delivery models.
The program helped stem labor shortages in respiratory therapy and telehealth services, maintaining non-COVID-related health infrastructure. Researchers found that temporary workers engaged in a range of activities, including COVID-19 care, mental health support, and non-COVID care.
A quality improvement program increased pneumococcal vaccination rates from 53% to 70% in adults aged 18-64 years with stage 4 and 5 chronic kidney disease. The intervention, which utilized electronic best practice alerts within the electronic medical record, improved vaccination rates primarily among this high-risk group.
A new study found that countries with greater universal health coverage had smaller declines in childhood immunization coverage during the COVID-19 pandemic. Countries with a high UHC index had an average childhood immunization coverage rate of 92.7% compared to 86.2% in those with lower UHC indices.
Research finds that patients are most satisfied with publicly regulated and financed healthcare systems. A study of 21 European countries reveals that increased competition has not led to improved patient satisfaction. Instead, Norway's public sector-led system is cited as a model for success.
A study of cardiology programs found that patients' documented DNR preferences are often suspended during TAVR procedures, with varying durations across programs. Only 26% had formal policies governing clinicians' responsibilities in these decisions.
A voluntary Long COVID patient registry could support long-term monitoring and service improvements, according to a new report by the Bevan Commission. The registry would involve patients and healthcare professionals in its design and promote equity of access through self-referral options.
A researcher studied the 'black box' phenomenon in breast cancer survivorship care, revealing communication gaps between women and their providers. She found that black boxing can hide service access complexities, emphasizing the need for improved information pathways to address post-treatment needs.
A new study reveals racial and gender disparities in access to life-saving heart-assisting implants, with Black patients and women facing lower rates of surgery. Despite similar survival rates, the findings suggest that unconscious bias may be influencing healthcare provider decisions.
A new study shows that telehealth, particularly audio-only visits, helped keep VA patients on medication for opioid use disorder during the pandemic. Phone visits also played a key role in reducing dropouts from care.
A research team from the Complexity Science Hub Vienna has developed a stress test to identify weaknesses and strengths in healthcare systems. They used data from Austria to show how many resident physicians can drop out before patients don't find a new doctor within reasonable distance, highlighting regional differences in resilience.
A study by UC San Diego researchers reveals health care facilities serving diverse populations were less likely to administer COVID-19 vaccines during the initial rollout. The findings highlight inequities in vaccine distribution, contradicting national policy goals.
According to a new poll, nearly 40% of older adults (50-80) use at least one integrative medicine strategy to alleviate symptoms or relax. However, only 18% discuss these strategies with their healthcare providers. The poll highlights the importance of primary care clinicians discussing integrative approaches with patients.
The recently updated ICPC-3 guide provides health professionals with a better understanding of patient functioning and its impact on primary healthcare. By implementing ICPC-3, clinicians can improve data documentation, enhance information exchange, and ultimately provide more effective care to patients.
A new funding model is being tested in Pennsylvania, which could lead to higher quality care at lower costs. The global budget model provides a fixed payment to hospitals, incentivizing them to focus on patient outcomes rather than extensive care.
A new study found that while the availability of lower-priced epinephrine auto-injector competitors has improved affordability for many patients, a significant minority still pay significantly more for life-saving medication. High-deductible health plans are a major contributing factor to these high costs.
The TCT MedTech Innovation Forum brings together clinicians, entrepreneurs, investors, payors, and regulators to identify clinical challenges and opportunities for innovation in cardiovascular care. The forum aims to shape the future of patient care through informed discussion and real-world insight.
A study in Health Affairs estimated the independent effects of seven nonpharmaceutical interventions on COVID-19 cases and deaths in Brazilian states. The results found that full restrictions on public events and full masking mandates significantly reduced disease spread, with combined effects being particularly effective.
The Brigham and Women's Hospital will implement and evaluate an integrated service delivery model (PEN-Plus) for severe chronic noncommunicable diseases, such as type 1 diabetes and rheumatic heart disease, in eight low- and lower-middle-income countries. The initiative aims to enable one million of the world's poorest children and you...
The global contrast media shortage has affected millions of diagnostic imaging examinations and requires immediate attention. Researchers propose several methods to conserve contrast media, including weight-based dosing and adjusting CT settings.
A new study suggests that outsourcing NHS services to the private sector is associated with a decline in healthcare quality, leading to increased deaths from treatable causes. The analysis of over 12,700 files revealed a link between increased privatization and higher rates of treatable mortality.
A recent study found that half of patients in East London regularly see the same GP, a crucial factor in better patient outcomes. The researchers highlight the need for policymakers to measure and incentivize continuity of care to improve health outcomes.
The American College of Radiology has issued risk mitigation guidance to help healthcare institutions conserve contrast media supplies amid a global shortage. Two healthcare systems, Vanderbilt University Medical Center and the University of North Carolina, have implemented strategies that reduced their contrast use by at least 50%.
The article provides guidance on alternative imaging methods for interventional radiology procedures, including the use of intravascular ultrasound, alternative contrast agents such as gadolinium and carbon dioxide, and case prioritization strategies to optimize available supplies. The authors recommend creating a priority matrix and h...
A new study reveals that police involvement in student mental health transfers at Ontario universities differs significantly, with some universities using handcuffs routinely and others reserving them for rare circumstances. The study recommends engaging police only in high-risk situations to minimize restraints during transfers.
A study published in the Journal of Hospital Medicine suggests that clinician encouragement can empower patients and their families to engage in civic activities. By promoting voter engagement, healthcare providers can contribute to building an inclusive democracy and promoting health equity.
A new study by Boston University School of Public Health reveals that transgender and gender-diverse college students are at a higher risk of developing an eating disorder. The study highlights the importance of colleges and universities in recognizing and addressing this issue, particularly among students with intersecting identities.
A UC Davis Health study found that patients on stable but higher-dose opioid therapy who had their doses tapered by at least 15% had significantly higher rates of overdose and mental health crisis in the second year after tapering compared to their pre-tapering period. The risks were greatest in patients with the highest baseline doses.
A study by Washington State University researchers found that Native Americans have to travel up to 103 miles farther than non-Hispanic whites to reach the nearest radiation therapy facility. This significant burden can lead to delayed or foregone treatment, resulting in poorer cancer outcomes.
Researchers estimated that hypothetical income support policies could avert approximately 1,200 to 2,800 potential deaths among working-age adults in the United States. The study used econometric modeling to analyze the impact of different policy scenarios on mortality rates.
A new study by Michigan Medicine reveals that people in some states will be significantly affected by restrictions on interstate telehealth. Rural residents have taken advantage of this service, with 18% using it for in-person care or telehealth, compared to 13% of non-rural residents.
A Mayo Clinic study found that disparities in opioid treatment access persist among women, Black and Hispanic populations. Despite increased access, these groups continue to face systemic barriers, including racism, mistrust of healthcare professionals, and lack of clinicians able to prescribe buprenorphine.
Dr. Mona Fouad has been recognized for her leadership in health disparities research and commitment to equity in healthcare. Her work has led to the development of rigorous research and interventions to make healthcare more accessible to historically underserved populations.
A Michigan study reveals that hundreds of thousands of surgical and dental opioid prescriptions are filled long after writing, but a state law helped reduce this trend. The authors suggest tightening state laws to prevent or reduce misuse associated with delayed dispensing of opioids.
A cross-sectional survey of 23,000 adults in 23 countries found that 15% of healthcare providers reported vaccine hesitancy. Factors associated with hesitancy include lower income and younger age, but not efficacy concerns. Strategies to address hesitancy include training and clear information on vaccine safety and distribution.