What would happen if the United States expands the definition of healthcare (the product), where it happens (the place) and who is providing care (the provider)?

I’ve recently had the pleasure of reading an insightful new report published by Harvard doctors in the Stanford Social Innovation Review.  In the report, titled Realigning Health with Care, not only are the statistics and ideas set forth relevant, but they’re proven to work in other parts of the world (and US pilot studies) where there are, and will be, dramatically insufficient numbers of primary care providers, facilities, and dollars available.

The report outlines how the utilization of non-medical care workers and community outreach facilities identify and source for remedies of health issues – i.e., lack of adequate food and housing which are common prerequisites for chronic disease – frees up physicians, nurse practitioners and PAs to manage cases requiring a higher skill level while bringing basic care to more individuals.

The article also highlights convenience clinics as a lower cost emerging resource in US healthcare.  And though the article does not address telehealth and telemedicine, many share my belief that if we include it (using telemedicine kiosks and remote or IVR based follow-ups to keep individuals diagnosed with chronic conditions connected and in adherence to a care plan) combined with universal EHR analytics to identify “at-risk” individuals – we will see a lower number of ER visits and less need for high cost healthcare.

This report is worthwhile read! To get the full article, click here.