Question

Examine the ways in which the U.S. healthcare system has improved since the publication of these reports. What still needs to be done to make our healthcare system better? Discuss whether or not the U.S. healthcare system is meeting all of the six aims (safe, effective, patient-centered, timely, efficient, and equitable) necessary to improve quality of care delivered to our patients.

Answer 1

The U.S healthcare system has improved a lot but needs constant restructuring in the health care system. The health care system has to meet the possibilities and demands of the future. It should have a clear direction and strong leadership for the better healthcare system. Some of the ways by which U.S healthcare can be improved as

• Providers have to provide comprehensive care based on the patient needs and not based on the reimbursement.
• Multidisciplinary team focused on patient-centered care.
• Organization should measure quality metrics and improve the quality of care for patients.
• Hospitals should reflect the actual cost of service what has been provided rather than bundled of payments for unnecessary care.
• Delivery of care should be equal and the same in all health care settings.
• Accessibility of care should be readily available to the patient.
• Care should be patient-centered and EHR should minimize the work of providers and improve the quality of care.

The health care system has to meet certain aims and objectives for the improvement of care. The U.S has met the aims of

• Safe: The healthcare system has provided safe effective care to the patients and avoiding injuries and harm to the patient. Ethical principles also promote the same.
• Effective: Health care system encourages for evidenced-based care for the effective care of the patient. Clinical studies promote scientific knowledge based practices for the better care of patients.
• Patient-centered care: It is patient-specific care provided based on the individual needs, values, preferences and provide of optimum care.
• Timely: Provide of timely care for the patient and reduce of waiting time of patients.
• Efficient: Use of resources effectively, effective use of supplies and equipment,
• Equitable: Provide of care for all patients equally irrespective of age, sex, gender, nationality, and socioeconomic status.

The U.S health care system has met all six aims but still requires to maintain these aims in all health care sector. The Department of Health and Human Services has to monitor the ongoing care of the health system and to encounter for improved quality and better patient outcomes.