Objective 2.04 Explore current trends in health care.

Cost containment Reasons for high health care costs  Technological advances – computers and advanced technology allows people to live longer but it also cost lots of money.  Aging population – longer life means more medical need.  Health-related lawsuits – lawyers want to put a cap on how much a person can sue a doctor for.

Methods of cost containment 1. Diagnostic related groups (DRG) – In order to help with Medicare and Medicaid cost, a limit was placed on the cost of care 2. Combination of services – stop duplication 3. Outpatient services – reduce cost of care

Methods of cost containment 4. Mass or bulk purchasing – to save dollars 5. Early intervention and preventive services – it’s easier and cheaper to prevent illness than treat it. 6. Energy conservation – monitor to control cost and conserve resources.

Home health care Care given to clients in their home may consist of a variety of methods or health related individuals Nurses, dieticians, and physical therapist are examples of people who provide home health.

Geriatric care Types of facilities – Retirement, nursing and rest homes. Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act (OBRA)- requires states to establish training and competency evaluation for nursing assistants.

Telemedicine Involves the use of audio, video and computer systems to provide medical and/or health care services. *Robotic surgery *Dr. Orders via phone, computer, or video.

Wellness 1. Physical wellness – taking care of your body. 2. Emotional wellness – being able to understand and express yourself appropriately. 3. Social wellness – communicating and interacting well with others.

Wellness 4. Mental and intellectual wellness – learning from life experiences 5. Spiritual Wellness – promoted by morals, values and ethics. 6. Holistic Health – treating the whole body, mind and spirit.

Alternative and Complementary Methods Of Health Care Ayurvedic practitioners – developed in India to determine a person’s body type. Chinese medicine practitioners – use acupuncture, acupressure, herbal medicines and tai chi to maintain the proper flow of energy and promote health.

Alternative and Complementary Methods Of Health Care Chiropractors – Corrects misalignment of bones to restore the flow of energy. Homeopaths – believe in the ability of the body to heal itself through the actions of the immune system. Use of diluted drugs to trigger and activate the immune system.

Alternative and Complementary Methods Of Health Care Hypnotists – trance like state in which people are open to verbal suggestions. Naturopaths – use only natural therapies such as fasting and lifestyle changes, avoids use of surgery or medical agents.

References NCDPI Curriculum Health Science Career Exploration - Simmers