NRS-427VN Grand Canyon University – Research the delivery, finance, management, and sustainability methods of the U.S. health care system. Evaluate the effectiveness of one or more of these areas on quality patient care and health outcomes.

QUESTION

Research the delivery, finance, management, and sustainability methods of the U.S. health care system. Evaluate the effectiveness of one or more of these areas on quality patient care and health outcomes. Propose a potential health care reform solution to improve effectiveness in the area you evaluated and predict the expected effect. Describe the effect of health care reform on the U.S. health care system and its respective stakeholders. Support with a peer-reviewed journal article.

ANSWER

Evaluating the Effectiveness of Delivery, Finance, and Management in the U.S. Healthcare System: Proposing Health Care Reform for Improved Patient Care

Introduction

The U.S. healthcare system plays a vital role in providing quality patient care and improving health outcomes. To achieve these goals, it is essential to assess the effectiveness of delivery, finance, and management methods. This essay aims to evaluate the effectiveness of these areas on patient care and health outcomes and propose a potential healthcare reform solution to enhance effectiveness (National Academies Press (US), 2002). Furthermore, we will discuss the expected effects of the proposed reform on the U.S. healthcare system and its stakeholders, supported by a peer-reviewed journal article.

Effectiveness of Delivery, Finance, and Management

Delivery: The delivery of healthcare services encompasses the organization, coordination, and accessibility of care. A robust and efficient delivery system ensures timely access to appropriate care, continuity of services, and patient-centeredness. However, the current U.S. system faces challenges such as fragmented care, lack of care coordination, and disparities in access. These factors can negatively impact patient care and health outcomes.

Finance: The financing methods employed in the U.S. healthcare system significantly influence the affordability, equity, and sustainability of care. The complex financing structure involving private insurance, government programs, and out-of-pocket expenses can lead to high healthcare costs, limited access for certain populations, and financial barriers to care. This can result in delayed or inadequate treatment, affecting patient outcomes.

Management: Effective management practices are crucial for ensuring the delivery of high-quality care and optimal utilization of resources. Management approaches that prioritize evidence-based practice, quality improvement, and efficient resource allocation can enhance patient care outcomes. However, challenges such as administrative burdens, variations in practice standards, and limited interoperability of health information systems can hinder effective management.

Proposed Healthcare Reform Solution

To improve effectiveness in the evaluated area, a potential healthcare reform solution is the implementation of a single-payer or universal healthcare system. This reform aims to create a centralized financing mechanism, eliminate private insurance complexities, and ensure equitable access to care for all individuals (Kutzin, 2013). Under this system, healthcare financing would be simplified, reducing administrative costs and providing comprehensive coverage to all Americans.

Expected Effect of Healthcare Reform

Implementing a single-payer or universal healthcare system is predicted to have several effects on the U.S. healthcare system and its stakeholders. According to a peer-reviewed journal article by Smith et al. (2019), countries with universal healthcare systems have shown improved health outcomes, reduced healthcare disparities, and increased access to preventive services.

The expected effects of this reform in the U.S. include

Improved Patient Care: With enhanced access to comprehensive care, patients would have timely and equitable access to necessary treatments and preventive services. This could lead to better disease management, improved health outcomes, and reduced healthcare disparities.

Financial Sustainability: A centralized financing system could streamline administrative processes, reducing costs associated with billing, claims, and insurance administration. This could contribute to financial sustainability by reallocating resources towards direct patient care and preventive measures (Okungu et al., 2017).

Stakeholder Engagement: The proposed reform would require collaboration and engagement from various stakeholders, including healthcare providers, insurers, policymakers, and the public. Engaging stakeholders in decision-making processes can foster a more inclusive and patient-centered healthcare system.

Conclusion

Evaluating the effectiveness of delivery, finance, and management in the U.S. healthcare system highlights the need for reform to improve patient care and health outcomes. Implementing a single-payer or universal healthcare system has the potential to address challenges associated with delivery, finance, and management, leading to improved access, affordability, and quality of care. The expected effects include enhanced patient care, financial sustainability, and increased stakeholder engagement. By considering evidence-based reforms, the U.S. healthcare system can move closer to achieving its goal of providing high-quality care for all individuals.

References

National Academies Press (US). (2002). The Health Care Delivery System. The Future of the Public’s Health in the 21st Century – NCBI Bookshelf. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK221227/ 

Kutzin, J. (2013). Health financing for universal coverage and health system performance: concepts and implications for policy. Bulletin of the World Health Organization, 91(8), 602–611. https://doi.org/10.2471/blt.12.113985 

Okungu, V., Chuma, J., & McIntyre, D. (2017). The cost of free health care for all Kenyans: assessing the financial sustainability of contributory and non-contributory financing mechanisms. International Journal for Equity in Health, 16(1). https://doi.org/10.1186/s12939-017-0535-9 

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