Cognitive Assessments Can Help Identify Needed Care

As we age, cognitive impairment becomes more likely. Simultaneously, our natural living conditions increase isolation and distance from support networks, including mitigating treatments that can negatively impact mental stability. Unless we deliberately and diligently assess those we serve, we have no awareness of such needs. Although cognitive decline tends to occur insidiously, repetitive assessments are still necessary. With… Read More »

Why Are We Slow to Stop Inappropriate Care?

One of our shortcomings as health care professionals is our acceptance of evidence-based medicine, especially when the data proves that abandoning practices is required.  And despite robust, research cataloging practices, that add little value, such activities remain widespread at a considerable cost and increasing the likelihood to harm. As professionals, the question remains, “Why are we so slow… Read More »

How Alternative Payment Models in Healthcare Can Impact Cost

As we continue to focus on value-based payment models, there is a strong belief that moving away from fee-for-service payments towards a per-patient rate for primary care providers will decrease overall costs. The counter concern is that this may also lead to reduced care because of the financial incentive to avoid services. Primary care providers (PCPs) have the… Read More »

The Value of Radiology Services in Value-Based Care

Radiology services play an essential role in value-based care. Yet, some believe that such services fall into the category of cost; however, if we change our perspective, we can consider such activities may elevate the overall value we deliver. In fact, diagnostic radiology can have a clinical benefit because it can help to refine differential diagnoses, define and… Read More »

Is Massive Social Unrest the Next Healthcare Crisis?

As strong leaders, we strive to improve upon each situation and anticipate the next steps. There are numerous scenarios, particularly in acute situations in which our advanced preparation is vital for the operation’s success. Frequently, these are short-lived and are dependent on location, such as weather, earthquakes, fires, etc. As shown, with COVID 19, Ebola, and other recent… Read More »

How Should We Define Quality?

As we continue to focus on improving the quality of care we deliver to those we serve, having benchmarks and external comparisons are essential. Granted we all aspire to zero harm; however, we are not here yet. Comparing our improvement to ourselves is laudable but does not give a clear indication of progress. Unquestionably, for those of us… Read More »

How is Chart Transparency Going to Impact our Communication Methods?

With the recent legislative enactment of the 2016 Cures Act, I personally have received several comments and concerns. On the surface, the concept of information transparency is paramount as we move towards a more consumer-driven approach. As a patient, I should have immediate access to my information since it pertains to me and I wish to know what… Read More »

Addressing Societal Health Issues at a Root Cause Level

As we continue to grapple with various disease states like obesity and diabetes, which impact a significant number of people, our ability to change human behaviors is minimal. We continuously design interventions that include education and behavioral modification with limited results. In essence, we appear to be attempting to prevent water from streaming out of the hose by… Read More »