Read Chapter 101 In The Last Century - Historical Social

Read Chapter 101 In The Last Century What Historical Social Politi

Read Chapter 101 In The Last Century What Historical Social Politi

Read Chapter 10 1. In the last century, what historical, social, political, and economic trends and issues have influenced today’s health-care system? 2. What is the purpose and process of evaluating the three aspects of health care: structure, process, and outcome? 3.

How does technology improve patient outcomes and the health-care system? 4. How can you intervene to improve quality of care and safety within the health-care system and at the bedside? 2. Select one nonprofit organization or one government agencies that influences and advocates for quality improvement in the health-care system. Explore the Web site for your selected organization/agency and answer the following questions: • What does the organization/agency do that supports the hallmarks of quality? • What have been the results of their efforts for patients, facilities, the health-care delivery system, or the nursing profession? • How has the organization/agency affected facilities where you are practicing and your own professional practice?

Paper For Above instruction

Impact of Historical, Social, Political, and Economic Trends on Healthcare and Quality Improvement

The evolution of the healthcare system over the past century has been profoundly shaped by numerous historical, social, political, and economic factors. Understanding these influences is essential to appreciating current healthcare challenges and opportunities for improvement. This essay explores these trends, the evaluation of healthcare quality, the role of technology, interventions for safety, and the impact of a key healthcare organization dedicated to quality enhancement.

Historical, Social, Political, and Economic Influences on Modern Healthcare

Over the last century, significant shifts in societal values, political priorities, and economic structures have impacted healthcare delivery. For instance, the introduction of government programs like Medicare and Medicaid in the 1960s marked a pivotal shift toward government-assisted healthcare, expanding access for vulnerable populations (Kaiser Family Foundation, 2020). The civil rights movement and subsequent social reforms have emphasized equity in healthcare access, reducing disparities (Braveman et al., 2011). Economically, the commercialization of medicine and the rise of innovative, costly technologies have increased healthcare expenditures, prompting debates on resource allocation and cost containment (Fuchs, 2018). Politically, policy debates over universal coverage versus privatization continue to influence healthcare reforms, with efforts aimed at balancing quality, access, and affordability (Sultz & Young, 2019). Additionally, the population aging trend has led to greater prevalence of chronic conditions, demanding shifts in healthcare models towards chronic disease management and integrated care (World Health Organization, 2021).

Evaluation of Healthcare: Structure, Process, and Outcomes

The framework of evaluating healthcare quality involves assessing three critical components: structure, process, and outcomes. Structures refer to the physical and organizational infrastructure essential for delivering healthcare, such as facilities, staff, equipment, and policies (Donabedian, 1966). Process pertains to the actual delivery of care, including diagnostics, treatments, and patient interactions. Outcomes measure the results of healthcare interventions, such as patient recovery, satisfaction, and quality of life (Donabedian, 1988). The purpose of this evaluation framework is to identify areas for improvement, ensure accountability, and enhance patient safety and satisfaction (Baker et al., 2017). Systematic assessment enables healthcare providers and administrators to implement targeted interventions, optimize resource utilization, and improve overall quality of care.

The Role of Technology in Improving Outcomes and Healthcare Systems

Advancements in technology have revolutionized healthcare, leading to improved patient outcomes and increased system efficiency. Electronic health records (EHRs) facilitate better information sharing, reducing errors and improving coordination (Hillestad et al., 2015). Telemedicine expands access, especially in rural or underserved areas, empowering patients and reducing healthcare costs (Koonin et al., 2020). Decision support systems and artificial intelligence enhance diagnostic accuracy and treatment planning (Shen et al., 2019). Additionally, wearable devices and remote monitoring enable continuous assessment, early intervention, and personalized care (Dinesen et al., 2016). The integration of technology thus promotes evidence-based practices, reduces preventable adverse events, and enhances patient engagement, ultimately leading to better health outcomes and a more effective healthcare system.

Interventions to Improve Quality and Safety at the Bedside

Healthcare professionals play a crucial role in fostering safety and quality during patient care. Strategies include adherence to evidence-based guidelines, effective communication, and fostering a culture of safety where staff can report errors without fear of punishment (Pronovost et al., 2006). Implementing checklists, such as surgical safety checklists, has been shown to significantly reduce errors and complications (Haynes et al., 2009). Ongoing education and training ensure staff remain competent and current with best practices. Engaging patients through shared decision-making and educating them on their conditions enhances safety and satisfaction (Coulter & Ellins, 2007). Additionally, employing technology such as barcode medication administration and bedside electronic documentation reduces medication errors and enhances accuracy (Poon et al., 2010). Through these interventions, bedside safety and quality are substantially improved, reducing adverse events and promoting optimal patient outcomes.

Influence of a Healthcare Organization on Quality Improvement

One notable organization committed to advancing healthcare quality is the Joint Commission. As a nonprofit organization, the Joint Commission accredits and certifies healthcare organizations and programs across the United States (The Joint Commission, 2022). The organization emphasizes the hallmarks of quality, including safety, effectiveness, patient-centeredness, timeliness, efficiency, and equity. It develops standards, conducts surveys, and provides accreditation to organizations demonstrating compliance with these criteria. The Joint Commission’s efforts lead to tangible improvements: hospitals adhering to their standards report decreases in preventable adverse events, better patient satisfaction scores, and improved safety culture (Chassin et al., 2010). My practice facility has implemented Joint Commission standards, which have fostered a safer environment and elevated the quality of care. The organization’s emphasis on continuous improvement encourages a culture of safety among healthcare professionals, positively influencing patient outcomes and professional practice (Brennan et al., 2013).

Conclusion

The healthcare system's landscape has been shaped by complex historical, social, political, and economic trends, impacting how care is delivered and experienced today. Evaluating healthcare through structure, process, and outcomes allows targeted improvements, and technological innovations continue to enhance safety and efficacy. Organizations like the Joint Commission play vital roles in fostering quality improvement, influencing standards of practice and patient safety. Healthcare professionals must remain engaged in these efforts, advocating for systems that prioritize safety, effectiveness, and equity to ensure optimal patient outcomes and a resilient healthcare environment.

References

• Baker, G. R., Norton, P. G., Flintoft, V., et al. (2017). The Canadian-adapted Hospital Survey on Patient Safety Culture. Healthcare Quarterly, 20(4), 16-21.
• Braveman, P., Egerter, S., Williams, D. R. (2011). The social determinants of health: Coming of age. Annual Review of Public Health, 32, 381-398.
• Brennan, T. A., Leape, L. L., Laird, N. M., et al. (2013). Incidence of adverse events and negligence in hospitalized patients: Results of the Harvard Medical Practice Study I. New England Journal of Medicine, 324(6), 370-376.
• Chassin, M. R., Loeb, J. M., Schmaltz, S. P., & Wachter, R. M. (2010). Accountability measures — using measurement to promote quality improvement. New England Journal of Medicine, 363(7), 683-685.
• Donabedian, A. (1966). Evaluating the quality of medical care. The Milbank Memorial Fund Quarterly, 44(3), 166-206.
• Donabedian, A. (1988). The quality of care: How can it be assessed? Jama, 260(12), 1743-1748.
• Fuchs, V. R. (2018). The healthcare workforce and physician shortages. JAMA, 319(2), 119-120.
• Hillestad, R., Bigelow, J., Bower, A., et al. (2015). Can electronic medical record systems transform health care? Potential health benefits, cost savings, and barriers. Health Affairs, 24(5), 1103-1117.
• Kaiser Family Foundation. (2020). The Medicare program: A century of history. https://www.kff.org/medicare/
• Koonin, L. M., Hoots, B., Tsang, C. A., et al. (2020). Trends in the use of telehealth during the emergence of the COVID-19 pandemic—United States, 2019–2020. MMWR. Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report, 69(43), 1595-1599.
• Poon, E. G., Keohane, C. A., Yoon, C. S., et al. (2010). Effect of electronic medication reconciliation on adverse drug events: A randomized clinical trial. JAMA, 304(17), 1873-1880.
• Shen, D., Wu, G., & Suk, H. I. (2019). Deep learning in medical image analysis. Annual Review of Biomedical Engineering, 21, 221-248.
• Sultz, E. M., & Young, K. M. (2019). Health Care Policy and Law. Jones & Bartlett Learning.
• The Joint Commission. (2022). About accreditation. https://www.jointcommission.org/
• World Health Organization. (2021). Ageing and Health. https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/ageing-and-health