Health Care Systems, Mental Health Research / 10.04.2025

Editor's note: This piece discusses mental health issues. If you have experienced suicidal thoughts or have lost someone to suicide and want to seek help, you can contact the Crisis Text Line by texting "START" to 741-741 or call the Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 800-273-8255. Navigating the Mental Health System The mental health care landscape is a complex maze of services, providers, and treatment options that can be overwhelming for individuals and their loved ones. Psychiatric health facilities become vital lighthouses in this maze, providing critical care and support for those navigating mental health challenges. From acute care to long-term support, these facilities are designed to cater to the varying needs of patients. Understanding their function and how to access their services is a key step in commencing a journey toward mental wellness. Please keep reading to gain insights into the role of psychiatric health facilities and how to utilize them effectively.

Understanding the Role of Psychiatric Health Facilities in Mental Health Care

Psychiatric health facilities serve several roles within the broader mental health system. These institutions offer a sanctuary for patients requiring medical attention, stability, and therapy for mental health disorders. Depending on the severity and nature of a patient's condition, they can provide both inpatient and outpatient services. Hospitalization might be necessary for those needing intense and immediate care, while others may benefit from the regular visits and treatments offered by outpatient clinics. These facilities typically house a multidisciplinary team of health care professionals, including psychiatrists, psychologists, nurses, social workers, and therapists. This range of specialists ensures comprehensive care, tackling mental health from various angles. The facilities also offer a structured environment conducive to recovery, with scheduled therapy sessions, activities, and the opportunity for monitored medication management. For individuals dealing with substance abuse, facilities like the Ocean View Recovery Center play a crucial role in providing tailored support. They not only address the psychiatric aspect but also the complex needs associated with addiction and recovery. These centers often integrate various therapeutic modalities to aid patients in overcoming substance dependencies while managing other mental health conditions. In essence, psychiatric health facilities are designed to act as integral parts of a treatment plan, supporting patients through various stages of their mental health journey. From crisis intervention to ongoing care, these facilities provide the necessary resources for patients to achieve and maintain mental wellness. (more…)
Electronic Records, General Medicine, Health Care Systems / 16.01.2025

Let’s be real—running a private practice has changed. The days of doing things “the way they’ve always been done” are long gone. Patients expect more. Providers are juggling tighter margins, growing admin work, and tech that’s supposed to help—but often just clogs up the flow. You’re working harder to deliver quality care, but what about the business side? If your practice is still operating like it’s 2019, you’re leaving opportunities—and possibly revenue—on the table. Rethink Your Digital Front Door If you’re thinking, “We have a website; we’re good,” you’re already behind. Patients aren’t just stumbling onto your practice anymore—they’re shopping for care like they shop for shoes: scrolling through reviews, comparing options, and judging whether you’re worth their time (and money) before they even pick up the phone. Your digital presence is your front door, and it’s not just about looking professional—it’s about feeling approachable. Think user-friendly scheduling where no one has to dig through four menus just to find an open slot. Think virtual check-in that cuts out that awkward clipboard shuffle in the waiting room. Think SEO that makes your practice pop up when someone searches for “best pediatrician near me” at 2 a.m. Every friction point—every glitchy “Contact Us” form or slow-to-load page—is sending patients straight to the next provider in their search results. Digital-first convenience isn’t a luxury anymore. It’s a dealbreaker. (more…)
AI and HealthCare, Health Care Systems, Technology / 20.12.2024

In today’s rapidly evolving healthcare landscape, artificial intelligence (AI) has emerged as a transformative force, redefining how hospitals operate and deliver care. With the growing complexity of healthcare systems, the need for smarter, faster, and more efficient operations has become paramount. AI is not just a tool for automation—it is a catalyst for improving patient outcomes, streamlining processes, and empowering healthcare professionals.

AI: The Backbone of Modern Hospital Operations

“Artificial intelligence in hospitals goes beyond robotic surgeries or AI-assisted diagnostics. It forms the backbone of operational efficiency, addressing challenges like overcrowding, miscommunication, and inefficiencies in resource allocation. By leveraging advanced machine learning algorithms, AI systems analyze vast amounts of data, identify patterns, and recommend actionable solutions,” shares Tiffany Payne, Head of Content at PharmacyOnline.co.uk For example, hospitals can now predict patient admission rates using historical data, seasonal trends, and real-time analytics. This allows administrators to allocate resources—like beds, staff, and equipment—more effectively, ensuring patients receive timely care. AI-driven operational systems also reduce the cognitive load on healthcare staff by automating routine decision-making. This frees up doctors, nurses, and administrators to focus on more complex tasks, ultimately enhancing the quality of care provided. (more…)
Education, Health Care Systems, Health Care Workers / 04.12.2024

The healthcare industry is constantly evolving, with new challenges and opportunities emerging daily. As patient needs grow and technology advances, there is an increasing demand for skilled leaders who can guide teams, improve processes, and ensure quality care. Leadership roles in this field require a unique mix of knowledge, experience, and the ability to inspire others. Starting a career in healthcare leadership can feel overwhelming, but with the right steps, it’s an achievable and rewarding path. This article will explore practical ways to get started and grow in this dynamic field.
  1. Understand the Role of Healthcare Leaders
Before pursuing a career in leadership, it’s important to understand what the role entails. Leaders in this field manage teams, oversee operations, and work to improve service delivery. They are responsible for creating strategies to meet organizational goals while ensuring that patients receive the best possible care. These roles require a balance of managerial and interpersonal skills. Healthcare leaders must be able to address challenges, motivate their teams, and adapt to industry changes. Understanding these responsibilities can help you better prepare yourself for the demands of the role and identify areas where you need to develop skills. (more…)
Health Care Systems, Health Care Workers / 03.12.2024

Running a busy clinic can feel like juggling too many things at once. Patients need attention, phones won’t stop ringing, and paperwork piles up faster than you can tackle it. Sound familiar? If you’re nodding along, you’re not alone. Many clinic administrators and healthcare providers struggle with staying on top of everything while delivering quality care. The good news? There are practical ways to ease that overwhelm without sacrificing service. Let’s explore six solutions that can make a noticeable difference in your clinic's day-to-day operations.
  1. Hire a Virtual Medical Admin Assistant
Ever wished you had an extra set of hands to manage calls, emails, or scheduling? A virtual medical admin assistant might be just what you need. These professionals work remotely but integrate seamlessly into your clinic’s workflow. Virtual assistants can take care of time-consuming admin tasks, allowing your in-house staff to focus on patient care. They can manage appointment bookings, handle insurance verifications, follow up on billing, and even respond to patient inquiries. With someone handling the repetitive tasks, your team will feel less frazzled and more focused. How much time would you save if your staff didn’t have to juggle phone calls while preparing patients for their appointments? Virtual assistants let you reclaim those hours. Plus, they’re often a cost-effective solution since you’re not paying for office space or equipment. (more…)
Health Care Systems / 11.11.2024

For Veterans who have honorably served their country, accessing the healthcare they deserve should be straightforward. However, the reality is that the U.S. Veteran healthcare system, particularly the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), is often complicated and cumbersome. Veterans frequently encounter barriers to care, including long wait times, eligibility confusion, overwhelming bureaucracy, and delays in receiving treatment. These obstacles can negatively impact their physical and mental health, creating unnecessary suffering for those who have already given so much. This article explores the challenges Veterans face in navigating the VA healthcare system, and it examines ongoing efforts and potential solutions to streamline the process. (more…)
Health Care Systems, Technology / 06.11.2024

In recent years, virtual sitters have become a valuable addition to healthcare facilities, providing an innovative solution to improve patient safety, reduce operational costs, and optimize staff efficiency. These remote monitoring systems use technology to allow trained personnel to observe patients from a central location, intervening only when necessary. A virtual sitter can offer various benefits that can significantly enhance healthcare operations, supporting staff and promoting a safer patient environment.

Improving Patient Safety

Virtual sitters play a crucial role in enhancing patient safety by offering continuous monitoring of at-risk patients. Patients who are prone to falls, disorientation, or adverse reactions can be observed by virtual sitters, who use cameras and audio devices to keep an eye on them. These sitters can alert on-site staff if a patient attempts to leave their bed, tries to remove medical equipment, or shows signs of distress. By intervening in real time, virtual sitters reduce the likelihood of incidents that could harm the patient, leading to quicker responses and fewer injuries. (more…)
Health Care Systems / 05.11.2024

In the healthcare industry, the medical supply chain is the lifeline that ensures essential medicines, equipment, and supplies reach patients in a timely and reliable manner. Efficient logistics play a crucial role in this process, impacting everything from patient outcomes to the overall cost of care. Whether it’s delivering life-saving medications, maintaining a steady supply of medical equipment, or managing vaccine distribution, the logistics behind the medical supply chain are vital for both healthcare providers and the people they serve. This article explores the importance of efficiency in logistics within the medical supply chain, highlighting its role in maintaining a responsive and resilient healthcare system. (more…)
Author Interviews, Health Care Systems, JAMA, Pharmacology, University of Pittsburgh / 31.10.2024

MedicalResearch.com Interview with: Katie J. Suda, PharmD, M.S., FCCP Professor of medicine with tenure Associate Director, Center for Pharmaceutical Policy and Prescribing University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine MedicalResearch.com: What is the background for this study? Response: Our pharmaceutical supply chain is global where the manufacturing process for one drug may occur in multiple countries. Sometimes there are breakdowns in the pharmaceutical supply chain which may threaten access to medicines. Breakdowns in the supply chain occur for medicines manufactured in the U.S. and by international partners. While breakdowns in the supply chain occur for hundreds of drugs each year, not all result in a decrease in available supply (a “drug shortage”) because of action taken by manufacturers, pharmacies and drug regulators (e.g., the U.S. Food and Drug Administration [FDA]). Drug shortages are a critical concern to public health as pharmacies, clinicians, and patients struggle to identify safe and effective alternatives. In addition, drug shortages have been associated with adverse patient outcomes and medication safety events. Recently, drug shortages have gotten worse with shortages occurring with increasing frequency and lasting longer. There has also been a shift in the types of medicines in shortage from drugs primarily used in hospitals, such as injectables, to oral medicines frequently used to manage outpatient conditions. Countries have different regulatory authority and policy which may impact how drug supply chain breakdowns result in drug shortages. We wanted to know if there are differences between the U.S. and Canada in the frequency that national drug shortages occur after supply chain breakdowns are reported in both countries. Canada is a good comparator to the U.S. because Canada has similar drug regulatory standards and manufacturing inspections. Prescription drug coverage is also similar for the two countries where half of prescriptions are reimbursed through public insurance and half through private insurance and out-of-pocket. (more…)
Concierge Medicine, Health Care Systems / 30.10.2024

A thriving healthcare practice should be accessible, flexible, and transparent with its patients. It can be difficult for patients to find trusted providers, and your practice should do all it can to present itself as a trustworthy medical caregiver. If you’re having trouble bringing in new patients, it may be time to evaluate your marketing and healthcare practices and improve in some areas. Learning about the most efficient practices to increase patient volume is the best way to start.

1. Establish an Online Presence

Prospective patients are more likely to choose a practice where they can learn information about your practice’s staff, policies, and reviews. They can only learn by booking an appointment or word of mouth if you have little online presence. These are not reliable recruitment practices. Create an accessible website with information about your staff, policies, and availability. Provide the services you offer and give patients an easy option to communicate with you via phone, email, or contact form (or all of the above). Provide transparent and updated information about pricing, insurance, and payment plans. (more…)
Concierge Medicine, Health Care Systems / 21.10.2024

The concierge medicine industry has been around for a while and was already worth $6.7 billion in 2023 with an estimated CAGR of 10.37%. This solution fills an apparent gap in the healthcare industry and has many benefits to offer to patients. Unlike traditional primary care, concierge clinics prioritize patients and give them personalized attention. Appointments aren’t rushed and access to physicians is available on demand. Concierge doctors don’t simply provide convenience to their patients – they improve their health outcomes and even build stronger doctor-patient relationships. The benefits of concierge medicine are numerous, so we’ve summarized the most important ones. In this blog, we will tell you how concierge doctors give a top-notch patient experience and help their patients stay healthy over the long term with preventive medicine. (more…)
Health Care Systems, Technology / 15.10.2024

  With medical needs escalating and technology advancing at an incredible pace, the speed of patient care is about to become much faster and more effective. Healthcare organizations are under pressure to do more with less. Businesses are finally able to leave their tech logjam behind when they plug into lean IT project services. Suddenly, the thorny vines of procedure fall away, and genuine innovation gets a second wind. Low costs don't mean low-quality care.. What if healthcare operations could run like a well-oiled machine? For that to happen, they need to corral their IT projects, but that's a tall order given the specific challenges they face.

Streamlining Operations Through Digital Transformation

Hospitals and clinics are constantly faced with the challenge of reducing costs without sacrificing the level of care their patients receive. Efficient IT project services facilitate the implementation of digital tools and technologies that improve operational workflows and processes. One area where IT project services provide critical support is electronic health record (EHR) integration. Healthcare goes high-tech when EHR systems are properly set up. It's like having a bird’s-eye view of a patient's entire journey, allowing doctors to spot connections and make swift, informed decisions. Under the watchful eye of regulatory authorities like HIPAA, IT project managers expertly integrate these systems, implementing checks and balances to prevent malfunctions and mishaps. When automation technologies are properly integrated, they morph administrative tasks into background noise, allowing healthcare professionals to redirect their attention to the ones who need it most: their patients. Think of automation as a behind-the-scenes team player. By handing over the routine tasks, healthcare pros can refocus on what matters most: providing top-notch care. (more…)
Health Care Systems / 08.10.2024

The healthcare landscape today is a complex patchwork of regulatory, financial, and ethical considerations that must be navigated deftly to provide top-notch patient care. Healthcare facilities, whether small practices or large hospitals, need an arsenal of resources to manage these various demands effectively. From guidelines on health equity to cost-containment strategies, maintaining a high standard of care requires constant vigilance and adaptation. Below, we delve into the crucial resources that can help healthcare facilities meet these challenges head-on and continue to offer services that are safe, equitable, and cost-effective. Keep reading to discover how your facility can leverage these tools for improved patient outcomes and overall success.

Cost-Containment Strategies for Healthcare Facilities

Amid rising healthcare costs, facilities must adopt strategies that constrain expenses without compromising patient care. A major element of cost containment lies in process optimization—streamlining workflows and eliminating redundancies can lead to significant savings and more efficient use of resources. Preventive maintenance of medical equipment and negotiating favorable terms with suppliers are practical steps that control overheads. Additionally, embracing bulk purchasing and generic medicines where possible can reduce expenditure on supplies without affecting the quality of care. Clinical pathway tools and healthcare analytics can help medical professionals make informed decisions that enhance patient outcomes while keeping costs in check. By following evidence-based guidelines, unnecessary procedures and their associated costs can be avoided, promoting both fiscal responsibility and patient safety. (more…)
Health Care Systems / 08.10.2024

Running a healthcare practice is not a simple matter.  You’ve got patients to care for, staff to manage, regulations to follow, and a business to keep afloat. It can feel like you’re juggling a million things at once.  Let’s walk through seven key things you should keep in mind to make sure your practice runs smoothly while delivering top-notch care.

1. Create a Memorable Patient Experience

Think about your patients’ journey from the moment they step through your door (or even before that). Is your front desk friendly and welcoming? Does your waiting area make them feel comfortable and relaxed? Patients notice these things, and they matter just as much as the care they receive. If people feel cared for in every interaction with your practice, they’re more likely to return and recommend you to others. Convenience plays a big part in patient satisfaction, too. Is it easy for them to book appointments online or through a phone call? Are your systems smooth and stress-free, or are patients left hanging on hold or struggling to navigate a clunky website? Get these small details right, and you’ll build trust that lasts. (more…)
Health Care Systems / 02.10.2024

Table of Contents:
  • The Intersection of Business Acumen and Healthcare Knowledge
  • Data-Driven Decision-Making in Healthcare
  • Understanding Healthcare Laws and Regulations
  • Effective Communication and Team Management
  • Technological Innovations in Healthcare Management
  • Strategic Planning and Implementation
  • Financing and Economics in Healthcare
  • Global Health Management Trends
Key Takeaways:
  • Combining business skills with healthcare expertise is vital for successful management in the health sector.
  • Leveraging data and technology enhances healthcare delivery and operational effectiveness.
  • Continuous adaptation and ethical leadership are cornerstone competencies in healthcare management.
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Health Care Systems / 09.09.2024

Running a medical practice is no small feat. Between patient care, managing staff, and keeping up with ever-evolving healthcare regulations, the last thing you want to worry about is whether or not your billing is being handled correctly. But  billing is the lifeblood of any healthcare operation. Without a steady cash flow, a practice can quickly find itself in hot water. This is where medical billing services come in, offering a way to streamline your operations and boost efficiency. Let’s dig into how these services can transform your practice.

The Hidden Time Sinks of In-House Billing

Handling billing in-house might seem like the straightforward choice at first.  But what often gets overlooked is the sheer amount of time and energy it takes to manage billing internally.
  • Staff Training - Keeping your team up-to-date on the latest billing codes and insurance regulations can be a never-ending task. And let’s not forget the frequent turnover in billing staff, which only adds to the training burden.
  • Error Management - Even with a well-trained team, mistakes are inevitable. Every error means more time spent on corrections, re-submissions, and follow-ups with insurance companies. Each of these tasks takes time away from patient care.
  • Software and System Upgrades - Staying current with billing software is another headache. Upgrades can be expensive, and the learning curve that comes with new systems can slow down your team’s productivity.
When you consider all these factors, it’s easy to see how in-house billing can become a drain on your practice’s resources. The time and effort spent on managing billing could be better utilized in focusing on what you do best: providing top-notch care for your patients. (more…)
Health Care Systems, Legal-Malpractice, Technology / 05.09.2024

Effective management of contracts is becoming increasingly critical for medical businesses. From managing vendor agreements and patient consent forms to navigating complex compliance requirements, contract management in the healthcare sector involves numerous challenges. As a result, more medical businesses are looking to adopt contract management software to streamline their operations, ensure compliance, and mitigate risks. This article explores why contract management software is becoming an essential tool for medical businesses and how it can help improve efficiency and reduce errors. contracts_pexels-olly-3760067 Medical businesses, including hospitals, clinics, and healthcare providers, deal with a high volume of contracts daily. These contracts can range from vendor agreements and service-level agreements to insurance contracts and patient consent forms. Managing these contracts manually can be cumbersome, error-prone, and time-consuming, leading to potential legal and financial risks. (more…)
Health Care Systems, Technology / 04.09.2024

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Delivering excellent care requires a combination of medical expertise and well-structured management practices. Healthcare management plays a critical role in making sure that hospitals, clinics, and other medical facilities run smoothly, allowing healthcare professionals to focus on treating patients. By overseeing the operational side of healthcare, effective managers create environments where patients can receive faster, more efficient, and higher-quality care. The Importance of Healthcare Management in Patient Care Healthcare managers are responsible for coordinating services, managing resources, and streamlining processes to improve patient outcomes. A well-managed healthcare facility allows doctors, nurses, and other medical staff to focus on patient care without worrying about administrative or logistical issues. Good management also plays a role in improving the patient experience. When healthcare facilities are well-organized, patients receive care in a timely manner, their concerns are addressed, and they feel confident in the quality of service they are receiving. This level of coordination is essential for creating a positive healthcare environment, one where patients feel supported and cared for throughout their treatment process. (more…)
Health Care Systems / 03.09.2024

State healthcare laws vary widely across the United States, each tailored to address the unique demographics and healthcare needs of their populations. These laws can govern anything from insurance coverage mandates to the scope of practice permitted for healthcare professionals. As such, the impact of these laws on patient outcomes can be profound and multifaceted, influencing not only the accessibility of care but also the quality and efficiency of the healthcare services provided. Understanding this complex landscape is crucial for policymakers, healthcare providers, and patients alike. The diversity in state healthcare regulations can lead to significant disparities in the quality of care across state lines. For instance, some states have robust telemedicine laws that allow for greater accessibility to specialist services for rural populations, potentially leading to better patient outcomes in these areas. Conversely, states with more restrictive laws might see a bottleneck effect, where access to necessary care is limited, affecting overall health outcomes negatively. Moreover, the dynamic nature of healthcare laws, often influenced by shifting political climates and economic pressures, requires continuous analysis to gauge their effectiveness. Studies and data-driven approaches are essential to understanding how specific healthcare laws impact patient health outcomes and to adjust these laws to better serve the population’s needs. (more…)
Marketing / 22.08.2024

In today's competitive healthcare landscape, medical marketing is no longer optional it’s essential. With patients having more choices than ever before, healthcare providers must adopt effective marketing strategies to reach and engage potential patients. This guide will explore the key aspects of medical marketing, focusing on strategies for effective patient outreach, including the crucial role of SEO.

Understanding the Basics of Medical Marketing

Medical marketing refers to the process of promoting healthcare services to potential patients. It encompasses a range of strategies and tools designed to attract new patients and retain existing ones by increasing the visibility of a medical practice or healthcare facility. The primary goal is to create awareness, build trust, and establish a strong online presence. Key components of successful medical marketing include branding, an engaging online presence, and consistent patient communication. Branding involves creating a recognizable image for your practice, which can be achieved through a well-designed logo, a professional website, and cohesive messaging across all platforms. An engaging online presence, particularly through social media and your website, is crucial for reaching patients where they spend their time. Patient communication, including email campaigns and personalized messages, helps keep your patients informed and connected to your practice. (more…)
Education, Health Care Systems / 20.08.2024

Healthcare has always been at the top of the list of societal priorities, and recently it has taken on even greater importance. The demand for experienced personnel who can successfully manage and navigate the intricacies of the medical sector is increasing along with the need for high-quality healthcare. When it comes to providing a lucrative and fulfilling career path for people who are enthusiastic about both healthcare and business, healthcare management comes into play. An in-depth knowledge of healthcare systems and policies is combined with administrative principles in the multifaceted discipline of healthcare management. Professionals in this industry are essential to assuring the efficient operation of healthcare institutions, streamlining processes, and providing high-quality patient care. The demand for capable executives who can meet the sector's difficulties head-on is rising due to the healthcare industry's constant change. Let's examine the wide range of lucrative career opportunities in healthcare management. (more…)
Health Care Systems, Medical Records, Technology / 01.07.2024

SAP TransformationImplementing ABA practice management software brings significant benefits to managing client data. This software streamlines administrative tasks, allowing therapists to focus more on delivering quality care. By centralizing client information, practice management solutions enhance both efficiency and organizational workflow. Effective softwares, such as an ABA practice management solution from Theralytics, has comprehensive features for tracking client progress and history. Securely storing client records in a centralized location not only simplifies data access but also improves communication and coordination among staff. By leveraging such software, practices can utilize data to achieve superior therapeutic outcomes. Automated data collection and analysis foster better decision-making, leading to improved treatment plans and client satisfaction. The integration of these tools is crucial for maintaining high standards of care in ABA therapy.

Key Takeaways

  • ABA software enhances data management and administrative efficiency.
  • Centralized information improves workflow and coordination.
  • Leveraging data from software leads to better therapeutic outcomes.
(more…)
Health Care Systems, Health Care Workers / 10.06.2024

The US healthcare staffing market is massive, although you wouldn't think it with the constant barrage of news reports telling us that we've got no staff and staffing shortages are increasing. Still, perhaps they're spending all the money attempting to boost staffing levels. And it isn't about the money - it's that people aren't as motivated to work in healthcare anymore. Below, we'll explore why the spending is so big.

The Rise in Demand for Healthcare Professionals

US Healthcare Staffing MarketThe booming healthcare staffing market is driven by an increasing demand for medical practitioners. The US is grappling with a shortage of healthcare workers, including doctors, nurses, and allied health professionals - over 340,000 combined professionals are needed, including doctors and nurses. The issue is, that as more baby boomers retire, they often become more reliant on medical services, putting pressure on an already understaffed industry. But the issue also is that the demand for healthcare staff isn't being met. The US and the UK both use overseas staff to fill the numbers. The people training to be nurses in the US are becoming travel nurses, aesthetic practitioners, and basically avoiding the main healthcare system. Well, not all of them, but a big chunk are. The US has no choice but to rely on outsourced agencies like physician staffing companies. (more…)
Health Care Systems / 03.06.2024

revenue-technologyEffective RCM is particularly important in today’s changing healthcare environment, where reimbursement is a critical issue for hospital finances. Development in RCM staffing is vital in addressing the needs that modern health organizations face. This blog post will outline the following most recent trends and methods associated with RCM staffing and why these approaches can be used to improve the performances of healthcare institutions.

The Crucial Role of Revenue Cycle Management Staffing

All revenue cycle management staffing can be seen as important in the operation of healthcare facilities. RCM stands for the functions that are responsible for the management of patients’ administrative and clinical billing and the patients’ revenue collection. It is possible to note that this area must be manned efficiently to prevent mistakes, delays, and losses to the revenue of the healthcare facilities. (more…)
Addiction, Author Interviews, Health Care Systems / 25.05.2024

MedicalResearch.com Interview with: Srivastava Kodavatiganti, MBS Department of Medical Education Geisinger Commonwealth School of Medicine Scranton, PA MedicalResearch.com: What is the background for this study? Response: Prescription and illicit opioid misuse and overdoses have continued to escalate in the U.S. with annual overdoses exceeding 110,000[1]. There was a substantial rise from 2013 to 2022 in the number of opioid-related overdoses due to synthetic opioids [2]. Even nonfatal opioid-involved overdoses increased 4% quarterly between January 2018 and March 2022 as observed by encounters by emergency medical services [3]. Although the eastern U.S. has been particularly impacted by fatal overdoses, annual increases have increased as of last year in the western states including in Nevada (+27.9%), Washington (+36.9%), Oregon (+38.6%), and Alaska (+45.9%).  In contrast, other states have seen more modest changes (New Mexico = +1.3%) including decreases (South Dakota = -2.4%, Nebraska = -19.5%) [1]. These findings underscore the importance for understanding patterns in usage of prevention and treatment strategies. Naloxone is an opioid antagonist which can reverse the effects of an opioid overdose. This crucial lifesaving tool is administered as an injection or as a nasal spray. This study characterized the patterns of naloxone prescriptions in Medicaid patients from 2018 – 2021 and Medicare patients for 2019. State level differences were also quantified as the fold difference in prescribing between the highest and lowest states when correcting for the number of enrollees in each state. (more…)