MHA622 week 1 discussion

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Ashford University *

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Medicine

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Feb 20, 2024

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Discuss two specific medical advancements (in the last ten years) and the challenges that hospitals face in providing these advancements to all patients equally. Immunotherapy for Cancer Treatment: Advancement: Immunotherapy has emerged as a groundbreaking approach to cancer treatment. This therapy harnesses the body's immune system to recognize and destroy cancer cells. Procedures include checkpoint inhibitors, CAR-T cell therapy, and therapeutic cancer vaccines. (Riley R et al.,2019) Spontaneous tumor regression is an exceptionally uncommon event, observed in approximately 1 out of 60,000 to 100,000 cancer patients globally. Contemporary medical journals routinely document instances that are widely acknowledged. Taking a pioneering step in 1891, Coley elevated the understanding of this phenomenon by injecting various combinations of live and inactivated Streptococcus pyogenes and Serratia marcescens directly into patients' tumors. This innovative approach could be considered the early development of immune-based treatment for cancer. (Dobosz, P., & Dzieciątkowski, T. 2019). Challenges in Equal Access: Cost: Immunotherapy can be expensive. The substantial expenses associated with the development, production, and intricate nature of these treatments create a notable financial obstacle. Individuals needing more insurance coverage or residing in regions with constrained resources may encounter challenges obtaining these therapies. The cost of immunotherapy protocols fluctuates based on the method and personalization of the treatment plan. A complete course of experimental cancer immunotherapy may fall within the average range of $30,000 to $40,000. (Slavin, 2022) Patient Selection: Immunotherapy may not be suitable for all cancer patients. Suitability depends on genetic factors, requiring advanced tools like genetic profiling. Unfortunately, these tools aren't universally available, hindering accurate identification of eligible patients. Access depends on healthcare facilities, creating disparities. Well-equipped centers can conduct thorough analyses, but resource- limited areas need more technology. Addressing these disparities in diagnostic capabilities is crucial for ensuring equitable access to immunotherapy benefits. (Signorelli, D et al, 2019) Telemedicine Telemedicine enables private healthcare specialists to practice and will enhance the patient’s experience. Patients will no longer have to stand in long queues, and physicians can access patient information more conveniently and efficiently with electronic files, eliminating overall wait times. Telemedicine transforms healthcare by allowing remote practice for private specialists, enhancing the patient's experience. It eliminates queues, providing convenient access to medical care from homes. Efficient communication through electronic files reduces wait times for consultations. This shift improves accessibility and information flow, aided by Electronic Health Records (EHRs). Telemedicine overcomes geographical barriers, extending specialized care to remote areas. Despite substantial benefits, challenges likeTechnological disparities and regulatory complexities persist. Addressing these challenges is crucial for equitable access, redefining patient-physician interactions, and improving global healthcare outcomes. (Haleem, A et al. 2021)

Advancement: Telemedicine has progressed swiftly, empowering healthcare professionals to remotely diagnose, treat, and monitor patients through telecommunications technology; this encompasses video consultations, remote monitoring devices, and mobile health apps. The convenience of telemedicine is evident as it eliminates the need for patients to commute to a doctor's office, find parking, or wait in a clinic. Consultations can occur from the comfort of one's bed or sofa, making healthcare more accessible. Virtual visits offer flexibility, allowing patients to integrate medical appointments seamlessly into their busy schedules. With telemedicine, individuals might not need to take leave from work or make childcare arrangements, depending on their availability. (Benefits of Telemedicine 2022) Challenges in Equal Access: Technological Disparities: Telemedicine access hinges on technology, requiring reliable internet connectivity and suitable devices. Unfortunately, rural and underserved areas may lack the necessary infrastructure, creating disparities in access between urban and rural populations. The digital divide becomes pronounced in regions where internet connectivity could be improved or more reliable, hindering residents from fully benefiting from telemedicine services. This technological disparity underscores the importance of addressing infrastructure gaps to ensure equitable access to virtual healthcare solutions, particularly for those in remote or underserved communities. Bridging this digital divide is crucial for extending the advantages of telemedicine to all, irrespective of geographic location or socioeconomic factors. (Hsiao, V et al. 2021) Digital literacy: Telehealth has emerged as a crucial component of healthcare during the pandemic and enjoys widespread popularity among patients. Nevertheless, the issue of digital literacy presents an equity challenge for telehealth, primarily affecting groups already experiencing health disparities. Approximately one-third of the 32 million Americans who lack computer access are seniors, those with low income, and those without college education. (Improving Digital Literacy to Improve Telehealth Equity. 2021) Discuss the concept: can there be quality of life without quality of care for patients? Inversely, can there be quality of care yet no quality of life for patients? The interconnection between quality of life and care forms the cornerstone of healthcare, with a symbiotic relationship that profoundly influences and shapes each other. Quality care is the foundation of any effective healthcare system, encompassing not only the technical proficiency of medical professionals and the accessibility of advanced treatments but also the compassion, communication, and understanding demonstrated in patient interactions. Without quality care, achieving a good quality of life for patients becomes a daunting challenge. The absence of appropriate medical attention and support may subject patients to unnecessary suffering, prolonged illnesses, and diminished overall well-being. Even delivering high-quality care may fall short of enhancing the patient's quality of life if it does not address individual needs, preferences, and broader socio- psychological factors. Emotional support, respect for cultural considerations, and attention to mental health are integral components of comprehensive care. For instance, despite excellent medical treatment, overlooking a patient's emotional and social needs may compromise their overall quality of life.

Optimizing patient outcomes necessitates a delicate balance between these two dimensions. A holistic approach to healthcare acknowledges that addressing the biological aspects of an illness or condition is just one facet of a patient's overall well-being. Comprehensive care must integrate medical expertise with understanding the patient's unique circumstances, values, and aspirations. In recent years, there has been a growing emphasis on patient-centered care, placing patients at the heart of decision-making processes and considering their preferences and goals. This approach aligns with the understanding that the patient's experience of care significantly influences their quality of life. Patient satisfaction, effective communication, and shared decision-making contribute to a positive healthcare experience and an improved quality of life. The intricate interplay between quality of life and quality of care underscores the necessity for a holistic and patient-centric approach in healthcare. Recognizing and addressing both dimensions ensures that patients receive adequate medical treatment and experience a meaningful and improved quality of life throughout their healthcare journey. Describe two historical events that either led to the advancement of U.S. hospital systems or two that impeded the progress of hospital systems in the U.S. The Great Recession (2007-2009): The Great Recession, triggered by the 2008 financial crisis, had widespread economic repercussions, and the healthcare sector was not immune. Many hospitals faced financial challenges as unemployment rates increased, leading to more uninsured or underinsured individuals. Additionally, state and federal budget cuts affected healthcare funding. The economic downturn constrained hospital budgets, limiting their ability to invest in new technologies, facility upgrades, and workforce development. The recession created significant challenges for hospitals in maintaining and advancing their systems, impacting the overall progress of the U.S. healthcare infrastructure. (Margerison-Zilko et al, 2016) COVID-19 Pandemic: The COVID-19 pandemic, which emerged in 2019, posed unprecedented challenges to U.S. hospital systems. Hospitals face overwhelming surges in patient numbers, shortages of critical medical supplies, and a rapidly adapting to an evolving healthcare landscape. The pandemic exposed weaknesses in the healthcare infrastructure, including the need for more robust public health systems and the importance of flexibility in responding to crises. Infrastructure Overwhelm: Hospitals faced unprecedented strain, dealing with overcrowded facilities and shortages of critical resources like ICU beds, hindering their ability to focus on long-term advancements and improvements. Supply Chain Challenges: Disruptions in the healthcare supply chain, especially shortages of essential items like PPE and ventilators, underscored vulnerabilities. Hospitals had to redirect resources, impacting the maintenance of standard operations and impeding advancements. (Davis, B. et al,2022)

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