How have “chronic” or long-term health conditions changed the face of healthcare?
Individuals with chronic (long-term) conditions tend to utilize more healthcare services when compared to individuals without major health concerns. This trend makes sense, since individuals who have been diagnosed with major medical conditions, such as brain injuries, look to connect more frequently with their physicians. However, the impact on healthcare use and costs are staggering.
According to Athena Mandros of Open Minds, “(E)leven groups of chronic conditions…accounted for approximately 45% of total health care spending in 2013.” These health concerns included various physical health problems, such as cardiac diagnoses, cancer, COPD, and diabetes, as well as behavioral health diagnoses. Approximately 5% of system users were responsible for using 49% of total healthcare dollars (Mandros, 2016). In other words, a very small group of Americans were responsible for generating almost half of the total dollars spent on healthcare in 2013!
The good news is that many major healthcare organizations are responding to this trend by creating new integrated models of care. These integrated models focus on holistic treatment that responds to both the chronic concern as well as overall health practices that can increase personal wellness, including food choices, routine activity, and personal safety. New Vitae Wellness and Recovery has emphasized holistic options through the provision of personal supports, including supports for primary care physician and specialist appointments. We offer yoga, smoking cessation, nutritional counseling, and spiritual practice activities to support behavioral health services and emphasize the connection between mind, body, and spirit.
We invite you to review our service options and contact us today!
References
Mandros, A. (2016 March 4). What are the spending stats on chronic conditions? Retrieved from: https://openminds.com/
