Evidence-based Medicine vs Evidence-based Practice Evidence-based medicine (EBM) uses the most current and best evidence to administer care. Healthcare professionals, however, tend to use the term evidence-based practice because multiple disciplines are involved in healthcare delivery. It seems more appropriate to use this term in lieu of EBM from a quality perspective as well. Clinicians…
Social Needs and Health Specific examples are educational attainment, socioeconomic status, housing situation, food security, family and social network, and access to transportation. Researchers and clinicians agree that if a patient cannot afford treatment, has limited access to health resources, and is subject to environmental stressors, the clinical effectiveness of care decreases, costs go up,…
Annual Enrollment Period and Medicare It’s almost the Annual Enrollment Period (AEP) for Medicare Advantage plans. AEP is when Medicare beneficiaries are able to switch health plans. The time period typically lasts from October 15 to December 7. During this time, Medicare beneficiaries can explore which plans meet their health needs and fit within a…
NCQA and Accreditation Standards The National Committee for Quality Assurance (NCQA) was formed in 1979 at the request of the federal Office for Health Maintenance Organizations (HMOs). The NCQA is an independent and not-for-profit organization deriving its revenue primarily from fees for accreditation services. The NCQA is the nation’s largest accreditor of Managed Care Organizations…
What Does the Term “Dual Eligible” Mean? “Dual Eligible” is a term given to beneficiaries of both Medicare and Medicaid. In order to receive Medicare benefits, an individual must be at least 65 years of age or a recipient of Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) for at least 24 months. Medicaid is the nation’s public…
What Is Autoimmunity Autoimmunity is when the body misidentifies its own tissue and attacks it. This hyperactivity can lead to serious tissue damage. These conditions can be life-threatening if left untreated. Common autoimmune conditions are lupus erythematosus, rheumatoid arthritis, multiple sclerosis, and irritable bowel syndrome. Manifestations of Autoimmune Conditions People with autoimmune disorders suffer from…
Modes of Long-term Care Delivery Long-term care facilities are institutions such as nursing homes, skilled nursing facilities (SNFs), and assisted living facilities that provide healthcare to people who are unable to manage independently in the community. The care may represent custodial or chronic care management or short-term rehabilitative services. The site of care delivery categorizes…