Articles tagged with Health Care Policy
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.
A study by Harvard Medical School researchers found significant disparities in common measures of hospital-wide mortality rates, highlighting the complexity and variability of diagnoses. The authors propose alternative methods to construct a more limited portfolio of mortality results for individual common conditions.
A study by researchers at the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health found that youth generally perceive community street outreach workers positively, regardless of personal experience. The majority of respondents reported successfully resolving conflicts and needing help with employment, education, and healthcare needs.
The Mayo Clinic Health Policy Center hosted a symposium on high-value health care, emphasizing the need for payment reform and collaborative approaches. Panelists stressed the importance of integrated care, ACOs, and electronic health records in achieving better health outcomes.
A recent study by Indiana University found that the state spends significantly more on health care-related consequences of substance abuse compared to its prevention initiatives. This means that for every dollar invested in treatment and intervention programs, only a small fraction is dedicated to preventing substance abuse.
A University of Michigan concept for value-based insurance design is featured in a thematic cluster of papers in the November issue of Health Affairs. The approach focuses on removing barriers to high-value services and aims to improve patient outcomes while reducing healthcare costs.
Researchers found that relationships are a crucial factor in spirituality, with 87% of patients considering spirituality important in their lives. The study recommends focusing on presence, journeying together, and engaging in reciprocal sharing to improve spiritual care.
A new study reveals that regional variation in health-care spending and utilization is two to three times more pronounced in Medicare than the private sector. Adopting private-sector utilization management models could help improve efficiency in the Medicare program.
A study by UCLA researchers found nearly 25% of California kids have never seen a dentist, with disparities existing across race and insurance type. Children with private insurance had higher chances of visiting the dentist, while those on Medicaid or CHIP saw less frequent care.
A large study found that men using erectile dysfunction drugs had significantly higher rates of sexually transmitted diseases than non-users, highlighting the need for healthcare providers to counsel patients on safer sex practices. The study suggests that ED drug use is associated with higher-risk behaviors and increased STD rates.
AcademyHealth recognized leading researchers in health services research and policy, including Dr. Lisa I. Iezzoni and Dr. Aaron S. Kesselheim, for their significant contributions to advancing policy and practice in healthcare.
A new UC Davis study found that low-wage workers are more likely to be obese due to limited access to healthier food and physical activity options. Raising minimum wages may help expand access to healthier lifestyle choices.
According to a new national survey by Indiana University's Center for Health Policy and Professionalism Research, 58% of Americans support health care reform, despite some wanting the law repealed. Younger individuals were most supportive of repeal, but many also want Congress to continue working on health care system reforms.
A study found that nearly one in ten primary care physicians experience conflicts with religious hospitals, with younger and less religious physicians more likely to face these issues. Most physicians feel they should refer patients to another institution if clinical judgment conflicts with hospital policy.
The article reviews Massachusetts healthcare reform, which has successfully implemented an individual mandate since 2006. The state's program greatly expanded coverage and access to health services while reducing the fear of insurers dropping coverage.
The American Thoracic Society (ATS) has endorsed pay-for-performance (P4P) programs in pulmonary, critical care and sleep medicine. The organization aims to improve patient outcomes by linking reimbursement to quality of care.
A new federal center for Medicare and Medicaid innovation could spur significant delivery system change by implementing alternative payment structures through voluntary pilot projects. Such pilots would be particularly beneficial for health care organizations looking to reduce excess clinical spending.
The Dartmouth Atlas hospital ratings are being used by policy makers despite their limitations, which fail to account for differences in patient types and outcomes. This could lead hospitals to prioritize conforming to the rating system over improving care quality.
A new study analyzing performance reports from medical groups found that pay-for-performance (P4P) initiatives had limited impact on overall care quality. Despite incentivizing providers to focus on preventative medicine, researchers discovered a lack of positive spillovers to other areas of care.
A study by WashU Medicine found that making flu shots mandatory in 2008 increased vaccination rates among BJC HealthCare employees to over 98 percent. The program's success was attributed to consistent communication and support from hospital leadership.
A mandatory influenza vaccination policy improved the vaccination rate among 26,000 employees at a large health care system from 54% to 98%. The study found that medical and religious exemptions were granted to 411 employees, with eight terminated for non-compliance.
A roundtable discussion highlights palliative care's crucial role in evolving health-care reform policy, focusing on changing public perception and educating policymakers. The panel emphasizes the need for proactive education and awareness to demonstrate palliative medicine's value in improving patient outcomes.
A study by the Center for Studying Health System Change reveals a gap between policy makers' expectations of commercial EMRs to improve care coordination and clinicians' real-world experiences. Current EMRs facilitate care coordination within practices but struggle with exchanging information across physician practices and settings.
A recent study found that low-income families in states with more generous Medicaid and SCHIP benefits report less financial burden. However, the percentage of families with out-of-pocket expenses exceeding 3% or 5% of their income varies greatly from state to state.
Researchers propose new guidelines for improved prescription drug ads, emphasizing clearer warnings about risks and accurate information about potential benefits. The study highlights the need for regulation of direct-to-consumer advertising to reduce harm and promote informed health choices.
Leaders in healthcare and health policy support sweeping changes to Medicare, including expanding payment pilot programs and creating an independent advisory council. Experts also back negotiating pharmaceutical drug prices and filling the 'doughnut hole' coverage gap.
Researchers evaluated the effectiveness of contracting private providers and cash incentives to increase healthcare use in poor countries. Strong evidence shows positive health impacts from cash incentives, while contracting out services had relatively weak results.
A Harvard Medical School study found that individuals who were previously uninsured between ages 51 and 64 cost Medicare an additional $1,000 annually due to complications from cardiovascular disease and diabetes. Expanding coverage may reduce subsequent Medicare spending by $98 billion, offsetting the costs.
A partnership between MU and state organizations provides medical interpreters to LEP patients, improving communication and reducing costs. The program aims to increase access to quality care and reduce misdiagnoses.
The Robert Wood Johnson Foundation has selected 16 researchers to receive funding for 10 new projects addressing key health policy issues. The projects aim to improve treatments for ADHD, assess Alzheimer's risk, and consumer understanding of food claims.
By February 2008, 45% of US hospitals had adopted smoke-free campus policies, with not-for-profit hospitals more likely to implement them. The majority of US hospitals are expected to adopt similar policies by the end of 2009, according to the study.
Ten exceptional health professionals have been selected as Robert Wood Johnson Foundation Health Policy Fellows for the 2009-2010 program. They will utilize their wide range of experience to provide health policy leadership on Capitol Hill, impacting health reform directly.
Janet Leigh, Chair of Oral Medicine and Radiology at LSUHSC New Orleans School of Dentistry, is a RWJF Health Policy Fellow. She will participate in the policy process at the federal level, accelerating her career as a leader in health policy.
AcademyHealth has recognized several notable researchers in the field of health services research, including Willard G. Manning Jr., Hongmai Pham, Rachel Werner, Amal Trivedi, and Andrew Ryan, who have made lasting contributions to policy and practice through their scholarship, teaching, and leadership.
A recent study found that older adults struggle to identify the most affordable Medicare Part D plan due to excessive choice options. The researchers recommend reducing plan numbers or standardizing benefits to make the system more user-friendly and cost-effective.
According to a new study, nearly 952,000 California adults seek medical, dental, or prescription services in Mexico each year. The primary reasons for this trend include cost and lack of insurance.
A Harvard Medical School study found that universal coverage can narrow health disparities among racial and economic groups. Among individuals age 65 and older with Medicare coverage, socio-demographic gaps in blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar levels decreased substantially.
Researchers found that considering partner characteristics together is the strongest predictor for STDs. Adding simple questions about partner characteristics to STD screenings could help catch more patients who need testing and education.
A new study reveals that less than 2% of US hospitals have comprehensive electronic health records, while 8% use basic EHRs in at least one care unit. The barriers to adoption include high costs and interoperability issues.
Research suggests that pricing interventions, such as taxes on unhealthy foods and subsidies for healthy options, can lead to lower body weights and reduced obesity rates. These policies are most effective in reducing weight disparities among vulnerable populations, including children, adolescents, and low-income individuals.
The report, written by U of Minnesota professor Gary Schwitzer, reveals that financial pressures and fierce competition are affecting the quality of health reporting. AHCJ members report difficulties in producing in-depth coverage due to bottom line pressure, with nearly nine in ten saying it's hurting news coverage.
A study published in Health Affairs explores four payment reform options to address the issue of value in healthcare. The authors suggest that episode payments may be a promising near-term opportunity for payment reform in Medicare, which could lead to improved quality and access.
The study highlights two countries that effectively cover all but one percent of their population through individual mandates and premium assistance. They also curb high administrative costs, spending about five percent on healthcare compared to seven percent in the US.
The University of Illinois Chicago's ImpacTeen project will study policy and environmental factors influencing youth behaviors related to nutrition, physical activity, obesity, and tobacco use. Researchers will assess state policies, school wellness programs, and community environments to inform effective policy and decision-making.
The supplement addresses complex issues surrounding second trimester abortion, including methods, values, and public policy. In-depth country-based research is needed to bring out facts and support second trimester abortion as a legitimate form of women's health care.
Healthcare opinion leaders strongly support fundamental provider payment reform to encourage high-quality and efficient care. The survey also reveals a preference for bundled approaches and incentives for providers, with only 1% expressing satisfaction with the current fee-for-service system.
The Lancet Editorial highlights China's health system reform as a starting point for broader dialogue on wellbeing. Key challenges include human rights, freedom of expression, Tibet, and Taiwan.
Community-based organizations are developing Local Access to Care Programs (LACPs) to provide low-cost healthcare access to growing numbers of uninsured adults. The programs build on county-based care traditions, offering discounted fees or free care from network providers.
A proposed value-added tax for universal health insurance vouchers would create incentives for cost-containment and health care quality. The plan aims to overhaul the U.S. tax system to achieve fundamental reform of health care, with significant decreases in other taxes.
A study by University of Illinois Chicago found that uninsured patients receive inconsistent care across public, for-profit and not-for-profit hospitals. The research analyzed financial reports, surveys and staff practices, revealing significant differences in how institutions ration uncompensated care to self-pay patients.
Researchers found that sales rates to pseudo-underage buyers were 18% and to pseudo-intoxicated buyers were 74%. The study suggests sports stadiums serve alcohol to minors and intoxicated fans, highlighting the need for responsible service and law enforcement monitoring. Sales were more likely in stadium stands than concession booths.
The US healthcare system scored an average of 65 out of 100 across 37 key indicators, falling short on health outcomes and quality. The number of uninsured and underinsured adults rose to 42%, with potential savings of up to $100 billion annually if performance improved.
Gary Banks argues that a more cost-effective health system is necessary to address increasing demand and costs. The Productivity Commission Chairman suggests potential solutions include policy initiatives in various areas of healthcare.
A recent study found that regional health care markets play a crucial role in implementing the national patient safety initiative. Despite initial high response rates, hospitals' progress in meeting Leapfrog standards was minor due to budget and strategic planning challenges.
The four award winners – David Blumenthal, Ashish Jha, Ming Tai-Seale, and J. Michael McWilliams – have made groundbreaking research in areas such as health information technology, quality management, and access to healthcare services. AcademyHealth's awards promote the sharing of perspectives and strengthening of working relationships...
A new Commonwealth Fund report analyzes 15 federal policy options to achieve significant short- and long-term savings and greater value in the US health care system. Combining universal coverage with policies aimed at reducing spending could result in substantial savings, including $88 billion from promoting health information technolo...
The Commonwealth Fund Commission proposes a high-performance health system with guaranteed affordable coverage, aligned incentives, accountable coordinated care, and quality-focused investments. The report outlines specific strategies to contain costs and improve the U.S. health care delivery system.
A depression outreach-treatment program improved symptoms, job retention, and hours worked among employees compared to usual care. The program's financial benefits for employers include recovered hiring, training, and salary costs.
The article suggests several policy options to address immigrants' limited access to health care, including expanding health insurance programs and improving language barriers. Researchers emphasize the importance of addressing these vulnerabilities to ensure better health outcomes for this growing segment of the U.S. population.
Several health reform bills before Congress could lead to significant improvements in health care quality and efficiency. These bills focus on changing payment systems, which hold the greatest promise for health care savings and quality improvement. However, they do not address an overarching strategy or gaps in implementation.
A new survey of health care opinion leaders supports expanding SCHIP to cover legal immigrant children, families with higher incomes, and parents of covered children. The program should also incorporate high-quality health care standards and innovative mechanisms to encourage better care.