How to Improve the Health Care System? It’s time to make major changes to our healthcare system. It costs too much, leaves too many people behind, and delivers too little. We can all help make a difference. Here are five steps to improve the health care system in the United States:
Value-based care: Providers are paid for improving patient outcomes, rather than on the quantity of their services. Value-based care has some important ramifications for the U.S. health care system. Despite its name, this system does not prioritize prevention and instead relies on a flawed payment system. Most primary care physicians don’t accept current Medicare rates. The cost of this system is soaring. The ACP paper describes how to improve the health care system.
Improving access to care is another key step. Improving access to primary care, preventive services, and where patients can receive care are some examples. Health care experts argue that the current system is too fragmented to serve the needs of patients, but collaboration between health care providers can improve patient outcomes. On-site clinics and robust workplace wellness programs are examples of ways to improve access. And, if you want to change the way your health care is provided, the incentives for the providers should be aligned with keeping people healthy.
Federal-state health care programs could provide equitable benefits to everyone and promote federalism. The private sector, including clinicians and hospitals, would still provide most of the care. Currently, the U.S. health care system is extremely complex, with many different stakeholders involved. It’s difficult to find ways to streamline operations and improve patient care. However, these approaches are possible. You can find the right solution by following these steps:
Consider the cost and value of health care. The United States leads the world in health care spending but ranks low in coverage and most dimensions of value. Many Americans are unable to afford health insurance and face other barriers to accessing quality care. Fewer employers offer health insurance and rising deductibles and benefits make it difficult to find affordable coverage. In addition, the United States spends far more on administration than its peer countries, which makes care delivery even more difficult.
Learning from other organizations. You can use existing data and research online to learn from other organizations. Read other organizations’ best practices and incorporate them into your own. Those organizations may be willing to share their own best practices and help you improve your health. In addition, it’s a great idea to attend conferences and research other healthcare systems. Many people would be happy to share their experience with you. However, there is a problem.