The National Library of Medicine article discusses how chronic diseases, now affecting 50% of the U.S. population, have contributed significantly to the healthcare crisis. These diseases account for 86% of healthcare costs, yet the medical field has struggled to adapt.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The article notes that since the 1950s, chronic diseases have become the leading health issue due to reduced infectious disease rates and an aging population; “The prevalence of chronic diseases began a steady rise to become the dominant cause of illness in the United States” (Holman, 2020). Despite this, medical literature and education remained focused on acute conditions, neglecting the needs of chronic disease patients.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Policy responses, such as managed care and cost-shifting, have been insufficient. “None has had more than limited success” in addressing chronic disease management (Holman, 2020). However, some new care models have shown promise, leading to “improved health outcomes, lower costs, and higher patient satisfaction” (Holman, 2020).<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The article concludes that the medical profession must adapt to the chronic disease epidemic. “The profession has not done so” in meeting the needs of these patients (Holman, 2020). Effective change requires a healthcare system better equipped to handle chronic conditions and control costs.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Holman, H. R. (2020, February 19). The relation of the chronic disease epidemic to the Health Care Crisis<\/em>. ACR open rheumatology. https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC7077778\/<\/p>\n\n\n\n