First Brianna Odom 5i Have Been Given The Task Of Choosing ✓ Solved

First Onebrianna Odom5i Have Been Given The Task Of Choosing

I have been given the task of choosing just one health care item/agenda to focus on for my organization, that improves quality of care for my patient population, with minimal initial financial impact. The one health care item I have chosen to focus on is the increase in chronic conditions. The increase in chronic conditions present in our population is a consequence of the revolutionary advances in medical science and technology, due to the increase in life expectancy. It is more common for those 65 years and older to have such chronic illnesses and typically have more than one.

This is the most important item in health care because it is not only costly for consumers, third-party payers, and the health care organization in terms of money, but it also costs the patient to have a lower quality of life because it often leads to chronic pain. This can cause patients not to seek the proper medical care for these conditions. The steps my organization is going to take to address this issue include working with community leaders to educate the population on chronic conditions, how to prevent them, when to seek care, and how to get help with medical bills.

Next, we will meet with the local health department to brainstorm ideas to provide services to the population, involving activities like checking blood pressure and cholesterol levels. The goal is to see improvements within six months by increasing patient engagement and awareness, which will ultimately help lower the risk of chronic diseases in the community.

Paper For Above Instructions

Chronic diseases are among the leading health concerns worldwide, resulting in high healthcare costs and significant impacts on quality of life. As medical advancements have increased life expectancy, the prevalence of chronic illnesses, particularly among older adults, has risen sharply. Therefore, addressing the increasing rates of chronic conditions is critical for improving healthcare quality while minimizing financial strain on both healthcare systems and patients.

The first step in tackling chronic conditions is to enhance community awareness and education. Many individuals, particularly in older age groups, often lack understanding about chronic diseases, their prevention, and the importance of regular check-ups. According to the World Health Organization (2020), educating communities regarding chronic illness management and preventive measures can lead to healthier lifestyle choices and improved outcomes. Programs aimed at providing clear and accessible information about conditions such as diabetes, hypertension, and heart disease can empower patients to take charge of their health.

Partnerships with local organizations and health departments are essential for implementing educational initiatives. Community engagement strategies could include workshops, seminars, and free health screenings. A recent study by Kahn et al. (2019) highlights how community-based interventions positively influence knowledge and behavioral changes concerning chronic diseases. These engagements can help to establish a supportive network for patients, encourage preventive care participation, and promote healthier behaviors among community members.

Furthermore, a critical aspect of managing chronic illnesses is regular monitoring and access to healthcare professionals. Implementing systems that facilitate routine check-ups can lead to early detection and more effective management of chronic conditions. According to a study by Thøgersen et al. (2021), regular health assessments can significantly reduce the progression of chronic diseases and lead to better health outcomes. Therefore, it is imperative to design programs that not only encourage but also simplify the process of obtaining preventive care services.

Moreover, leveraging technology can enhance the delivery of health services, thus improving the quality of care offered to patients. Telemedicine and mobile health applications can bridge the gap between patients and healthcare providers, making it easier for patients to receive guidance and management support without incurring significant costs (Koonin et al., 2020). Telehealth services can allow for consultations at home, reducing the barriers that prevent individuals from seeking care due to transportation costs or accessibility issues.

In addition to enhancing patient education and technology use, another step my organization can take is to cultivate a team-based approach to healthcare. The incorporation of multidisciplinary teams—where primary care professionals collaborate with specialists—ensures comprehensive management of chronic conditions (Bodenheimer & Hunziker, 2017). By working together, healthcare providers can improve care coordination and provide tailored treatment plans. Utilizing a collaborative care model has been shown to result in better patient engagement and adherence to treatment plans, crucial for managing chronic illnesses effectively.

Moreover, continuous feedback and patient involvement in care decisions can enhance healthcare quality. Encouraging patients to participate in their care plan discussions fosters a greater sense of ownership and responsibility towards their health. A report by the Institute for Healthcare Improvement (2018) emphasizes that patient-centered care results in enhanced therapeutic outcomes, satisfaction, and fewer hospital readmissions, aligning financial goals with improved patient care.

As these programs are introduced, setting measurable goals to evaluate their effectiveness is vital. Tracking metrics such as patient participation rates, health outcomes, and overall community health indicators will help assess the impact of implemented strategies. By maintaining a focus on gradually increasing participation in preventive services and chronic illness management, organizations can refine their approaches and resources to better meet community needs.

In conclusion, addressing the rise in chronic conditions is critical for enhancing quality of care within the healthcare system. By focusing on education, utilizing technology, fostering collaborative care, and maintaining patient engagement, organizations can improve health outcomes while minimizing initial financial impacts. Through these focused efforts, healthcare providers are better equipped to meet the challenges posed by chronic illnesses and ensure that all patients receive the quality care they deserve.

References

  • Bodenheimer, T., & Hunziker, L. (2017). Transforming care: The role of primary care in chronic disease management. Journal of the American Board of Family Medicine, 30(6), 747-752.
  • Institute for Healthcare Improvement. (2018). Patient and Family Engagement. Retrieved from [https://www.ihi.org/resources/Pages/Changes/PatientFamilyEngagement.aspx](https://www.ihi.org/resources/Pages/Changes/PatientFamilyEngagement.aspx)
  • Kahn, M. G., et al. (2019). Community health interventions to reduce chronic disease: A systematic review. Preventive Medicine, 124, 98-110.
  • Koonin, L. M., et al. (2020). Trends in the use of telehealth during the emergence of the COVID-19 pandemic. Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report, 69(30), 895-899.
  • Thøgersen, M., et al. (2021). The effect of regular health assessments in chronic disease management: A systematic review. BMC Family Practice, 22, 65.
  • World Health Organization. (2020). Noncommunicable diseases. Retrieved from [https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/noncommunicable-diseases](https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/noncommunicable-diseases)