How to Improve Access to Health Care: Issues & Potential Solutions -Corwin N. Harper, MHA, FACHE
As an advocate for equitable healthcare access and someone deeply passionate about ensuring healthcare for all, I recently came across an informative article that struck a chord with my beliefs. Published on the USC Health Administration Degree blog, How to Improve Access to Health Care: Issues & Potential Solutions explores strategies to enhance access to healthcare, a cause close to my heart.
“Without that access, people live with undue pain and conditions that tend to worsen over time.”
In today’s world, it is unacceptable that many individuals still face barriers to essential healthcare services. However, as a firm believer in the fundamental right to healthcare, I firmly believe that we can make a difference by implementing proactive measures.
The article provides valuable insights on improving access to healthcare for underserved populations. It emphasizes the significance of addressing social determinants of health, such as income inequality, education, and housing, which greatly impact individuals’ ability to access and receive quality care. By tackling these underlying factors, we can begin to bridge the gaps and ensure that healthcare is accessible to all, regardless of their socioeconomic status.
“Rising costs for medical care are putting it out of reach for many. Couple this with the growing number of high-deductible plans, which require people to pay quite a bit out of pocket before the insurance kicks in, and you have an economic situation that requires many people to turn away from needed health care just because of the cost.”
One key approach highlighted in the article is the utilization of telemedicine and technology. Leveraging advancements in digital health allows us to reach remote and underserved communities, providing them with much-needed medical consultations, preventive care, and health education. By expanding telehealth services, we can break down geographical barriers and ensure that individuals, regardless of their location, have access to healthcare professionals.
“People with mobility challenges may have a difficult time leaving their homes to access care, and providers located in areas with inadequate public transportation may be inaccessible for lower-income patients and patients who do not own vehicles.”
The article also stresses the importance of strengthening primary care services. Investing in robust primary care systems can improve preventive care, early detection of diseases, and chronic disease management. This enhances individuals’ health outcomes and reduces the burden on emergency rooms and hospitals, making healthcare more cost-effective and efficient.
“Effective health care leaders understand the value of looking to research when trying to tackle multipronged issues like accessibility to health care.”
Additionally, the article highlights the significance of healthcare workforce diversification. By increasing the representation of underrepresented minority groups in healthcare professions, we can foster cultural competence and enhance the delivery of care to marginalized populations. This approach creates a more inclusive healthcare system that meets the unique needs of diverse communities.
Another crucial aspect emphasized is the expansion of health insurance coverage. By advocating for comprehensive health insurance policies and reducing financial barriers, we can ensure that individuals can access necessary healthcare services without fear of exorbitant costs. This promotes early intervention and preventive care and provides individuals with the peace of mind that they will receive the care they need when faced with health challenges.
“Healthcare providers can take additional steps to ensure the comfort and well-being of their patients by getting to know their patients as people; at the beginning of a visit, providers should ask questions in a warm tone and offer opportunities for patients to share their concerns in a safe environment.”
In conclusion, as someone deeply passionate about healthcare for all, this article served as a powerful reminder of the steps we can take to improve access to healthcare services. By addressing social determinants of health, embracing telemedicine and technology, strengthening primary care, diversifying the healthcare workforce, and expanding health insurance coverage, we can make significant strides toward a more equitable healthcare system. Let us work tirelessly to ensure that every individual, regardless of their background or circumstances, has access to the healthcare they deserve. Together, we can build a healthier and more just society.
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About Corwin: An empathetic and authentic leader who champions improving humanity through healthcare, Corwin Harper has contributed over 35 years of experience in various areas, from healthcare systems to fiduciary and governance to economic development. Corwin’s strengths include analyzing and assessing situations to create multi-year strategy plans, and he has the vision to identify new business opportunities where others fail to see the potential. Through his innovation as a transformational healthcare leader, he aims at creating a more human world with a strong focus on social and educational equity to improve humanity for all.
