It’s 2008. There are thousands of really smart people working to change the delivery of health care, reduce inappropriate use, and improve outcomes.
But in one state, things aren’t getting better – they are getting worse. (I’m not picking on Pennsylvania; they just have the misfortune of being in the news more than other states lately)
A study of admission rates in Pennsylvania found that patients with chronic conditions are being admitted to the hospital more often. The analysis focused on HMO members with diabetes, asthma, and/or hypertension and the result is particularly troubling as these conditions are responsible for a large percentage of US health care costs.
Notably, these HMOs have also been lauded for their effectiveness in delivering preventive care, care that should help reduce the number of admissions for these conditions.
Previous studies indicate that effective primary care can dramatically reduce the number of admissions for these conditions. And further reductions can be achieved by implementing quality improvement programs, programs that have well-documented results.
So we’re left with the conclusion that despite the fact that we know how to keep patients with chronic conditions out of the hospital, admission rates are going up. And Pennsylvania is not particularly bad – there are a dozen other states that spend a lot more money on inpatient chronic care than the national average.
Can you sense the frustration?
Apr
10
Joe, You are asking a very important question here.
The report gives no clues as to possible answers; in fact, the methodology is spelled out in great detail and the data are risk adjusted.
I’ll add to your question: …and why is the headline of the press release: “Pennsylvania HMOs Rate High on Preventive Care” ???