Thoughts, Observations and ...
Improving Patient Care, Outcomes & Controlling Health Care Costs
- Simply stated, we understand that Health is our most important asset and as such, Hospitals and Health Care Systems can and should serve as the focal point and destination of choice for the personal, occupational and business health for they communities they serve;
- With that said, any idea what the third leading cause of death is in the United States according to a recent Johns Hopkins study?
- Prescription medications have a significant impact on both the quality and cost of health care. Are you aware that you can potentially reduce your RX costs by ... asking your doctor if they have samples before beginning a new regimen of a high-cost medication ... asking if there is a Generic or lower cost alternative available ... ordering a 90 day Mail-Order supply when appropriate and available ... searching websites such as Good RX to compare local Pharmacy pricing for your Meds ... doing a Google search typing the Medication Name and "Coupon" - YES COUPON! Manufacturers often offer coupons that provide significant discounts for many expensive medications.
- If you or a family member were to be confronted with a serious or chronic condition, would you be prepared to navigate the complexities of the health care systems, asking appropriate questions and following treatment protocols from the multiple "ists" of health care - i.e. Cardiologist, Endocrinologist, Nephrologist, Pulmonologist, Psychologist, Physical Therapist, Pharmacist - who may be called in by the patient's Primary Care Physician (PCP) to treat a Chronic Condition such as Congestive Heart Failure (CHF)?
- Do you know the difference between Hospice Care and Palliative Care? The distinction is important - especially in cases that may be serious but not always involve end-of-life decision-making.
- Most serious illnesses involving Advanced Illness, Chronic Disease and End-of-Life care general involve treating the Physical Health of the patient. However, the Mental Health of both the patient and their family members should also be addressed.
- Have you had "THE CONVERSATION" with your family members and prepared a Living Will or Advance Directive so your family knows how you would want to be cared for if time was to become short and you were unable to communicate those wishes?
- Your company Health Plan's annual open enrollment is quickly approaching and once again, your employees are struggling with the question of which plan option is right for them and unfortunately, the answer is - IT DEPENDS. However, there is hope if they begin by thinking about and prioritizing their health care NEEDS in terms of:
... Current health, family history and any scheduled procedures;
... Network size and specific provider relationships;
... Richness of benefits;
... Financial ability to absorb Fixed (premium) vs. Variable (claim) costs;
... Personal risk tolerance.
- Since future health care needs are both highly personal and often unforeseeable, employees and their families require a higher level of support in evaluating their needs - support that we are prepared to provide.
