Female doctor with the stethoscope holding heart
The delivery of health care in any country is dependent on a health system. Health systems consist of the financing, workforce, facilities, and supplies necessary to provide health care. The goal of healthcare systems is to improve health for the population, while maximizing available resources and competing needs. Although most nations view health as a special good, the United Nations considers access to healthcare as a human right. However, this definition does not include the private sector’s contribution to health care.
The literature-based empirical study of this paper uses existing research from a number of countries to imput general flow processes to health care systems. These processes are of interest in terms of the safety and quality of health care. It also uses detailed Australian data to evaluate key system interrelationships. It concludes that a health system is not a silo. This study outlines a framework for healthcare quality measurement and accreditation.
In addition to the use of technology, healthcare systems need to build viable business models to support the delivery of virtual care. The majority of health systems make most of their revenue from fee-for-service reimbursement. While some private payers have recently relaxed regulations allowing virtual care, new federal and state laws are needed to ensure that these changes are sustainable over the long term. So what are the next steps for healthcare systems? The answer may surprise you!
The U.S. healthcare system is costly – it costs $3.3 trillion annually, or $10,348 per person. By contrast, the healthcare systems of the EU represent EUR1.1 trillion, or 7% of GDP. These countries differ greatly in the extent of public control. In the Czech Republic, Luxembourg, and the Slovak Republic, the public sector dominates the healthcare system. In other countries, the private sector dominates the health sector, resulting in superior care and lower costs.
The Health Systems Management program prepares graduates to understand trends in the healthcare industry, manage resources, and design solutions for healthcare systems challenges. Ultimately, the goal of this degree program is to improve the quality of healthcare. And, it can be completed in half or more distance learning options, which are advantageous for those who cannot attend traditional campuses. You can even complete your degree online – many schools offer their courses online. So you don’t have to give up your job or your family just to pursue your dream career!
The cost of healthcare is largely determined by the country’s payment system. Many private healthcare systems pay physicians based on fee-for-service. Physicians in these countries can charge more than they are permitted. The financial incentives for physicians to treat patients may result in overutilization of services. This, however, is not the only issue affecting healthcare access in the U.S., but it is certainly an important topic. You need to understand the costs of healthcare and how it impacts your community’s health.
