Editor’s Note: The growth of Medicare Advantage as a program (it accounts for a third of Medicare enrollees and spending), and the 9.3% difference in hospitalization rates between MA and fee-for-service has been cited as a good sign for the future of healthcare. CLICK HERE and let us show how BHM’s economically maintain turn-around times and accuracy for new members.

Medicare Part D

The JAMA study reveals a potential patient response to the current inadequacy of end-of-life care as, for some older Americans, ending up in a hospital can mean high-cost and aggressive treatment in their final days.

Such treatment does not always equal better care. When it comes to their elderly patients, incumbent healthcare systems increasingly specialize in expensive, often unnecessary services as opposed to a value-based approach.

The findings come on the tide of the so-called “silver tsunami” as the American population skews ever older. The number of Americans aged 65 or older is projected to more than double by 2060, when they will eventually account for 24% of the total population.

New startups have emerged looking to address the institutional inadequacy of end-of-life care, viewing the aging population as a business opportunity. The growing companies zero in on technology-driven solutions in home health, chronic illness and end-of-life care as they look to scale to combat industry issues.
Such startups are a potential wake-up call for traditional healthcare organizations.

The growth of Medicare Advantage as a program (it accounts for a third of Medicare enrollees and spending), and the 9.3% difference in hospitalization rates between MA and fee-for-service has been cited as a good sign for the future of healthcare. CLICK HERE and let us show how BHM’s economically maintain turn-around times and accuracy for new members.