When we think about drug costs, many people immediately go to the idea that drug companies are just trying to maximize the return on their investment like any other company. But drug companies have high research and development costs, and are a constant risk of “losing” customers because medication adherence is low. High upfront costs and customer instability… Read More »
In the move to consumerism, where the consumer has financial “skin in the game,” there are two prevailing thoughts: One, that a consumer will be more discrete in their purchasing if there is money coming out of their pocket, and two, that same consumer has the ability to live without the good purchased. Unfortunately one’s need for healthcare… Read More »
Medicine is an imperfect science, coupled with the art of human experiences. The experience of the physician and the patient both come into play. But unfortunately, we often ignore how these points of view come together, creating a struggle between the needs of the physician and the patient. As we continuously strive to treat and diagnose those that… Read More »
In the United States we have traditionally distinguished dental health from medical health. This divide dates back to the creation of two, distinct educational models and tracks. It continues as dental care and medical care are paid under different insurance mechanisms. Dental care seems to be financially treated and viewed as a luxury versus a medical necessity. This… Read More »
Moving to value-based models of care will require us to include our patients in decision making in ways we have not done before. Historically healthcare has focused on first doing no harm, which has led us to err on the side of being conservative and has thus led to increased utilization of services. As we move to models… Read More »
As we think about creating value for those we serve, a major component is making sure we view those that consume the goods we produce as partners in the decision making process. Though this might seem obvious, healthcare has historically not taken this approach. Payments have not been made by those consuming the resources, and the resources (healthcare)… Read More »
In order to improve the health and well-being of those we serve, we will be challenged to take a broader view of what is needed. Whether it is the different components of an illness, or the social determinants that impact the barriers to receiving care, taking a more systemic approach is required. Using system capital is process of… Read More »
Human rights have shaped our history. We have fought over and for them. But what are human rights? The Universal Declaration of Human Rights as set forth by the United Nations in 1948 placed at its core, that “human rights are birth rights – rights that all people have by virtue of being human, and require all humans… Read More »
As we continue to move towards a healthcare model that delivers on value, we need to focus on those being served and how we create shared value. If we want to make an impact, we must focus on how we create a culture of health. A recent article by Chandra et al in Health Affairs, Drivers of Health… Read More »
Current healthcare environment eroding physician professionalism Physician burnout is a problem. The data supports the fact that physicians burn out at a high rate and are becoming less satisfied with their work every day. When medical students go into medicine, they feel they are serving a greater good, and joining a profession that is noble. On the consumer… Read More »