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Running head TWO AMERICAN HEALTH CARE SYSTEMS
Comparison and Analysis of Two American Health Care Systems Phoenix VS Boston
Comparison and Analysis of Two American Health Care Systems Phoenix VS Boston
Cheap Custom Essays on Medical comparison between Phoenix and Boston
The purpose of this paper is to examine two American health care systems. Examining the differences between cities such as Phoenix and Boston will aid in future development of successful health care systems. Specifically, the issues discussed will be external factors affecting the cities health care, organization of the system, clinical practice and delivery of care, care of the poor, and future issues for each system.
External Factors Affecting the Health Care System
Population Growth
Rapid growth in the Phoenix area during the past three decades distinguishes it from other large metropolitan areas in the United States, and has had quite an impact on its health care delivery system (Christianson, Mechanic, St. Peter & Srinivasan, 17). The city also faces future challenges as being one of the fastest-growing metropolitan areas in the country, with the expectation for growth to be nearly % annually over the next 15 years (Christianson et al., 17, p. ). The population of Phoenix as of July 1 was a little over million (Draper, Brewster, Brown, Watts, Felland, Christianson, Stoddard & Park, 001).
The population for Boston County in July of 1 was almost 4.5 million (Devers, Christianson, Felland, Felt-Lisk, Ruddell, Brewster, & Tu, 001, p. 1). The population change between 10-1 was just .8% compared to the 8.6% in other metropolitan areas (Devers et al., 001).
Income
The family income is an important external factor affecting the health care system for both cities. For metropolitan areas above 00,000 in population, the average median income is $7,84 (Devers et al., 001). The median income for Phoenix is $,15 (Draper et al., 001, p.1). The median income for Boston is $1,868, well above the average metropolitan median (Devers et al., 001, p. 1).
Diversity
Phoenix has a very diverse population. The city has 1% of its population over the age of 65 (Draper et al., 001). Hispanics account for 17% of the population, which is considerably above the national average (Christianson et al., 17). With less of an ethnic make-up, nearly 0% of the Boston area is Caucasian, compared with 75% for the United States as a whole. Boston is similar to Phoenix with 14% of its population over the age of 65 (Devers et al., 001).
Comparison and Analysis
In comparison of the population, Boston is larger, but Phoenix is one of the fastest-growing areas in the United States. The median income in Phoenix is slightly less than Boston, but is still above the national median. While Boston is “whiter” and healthier, Phoenix is more diverse in its population make-up. These significant differences mean a struggle for Phoenix. Being more diverse will present a challenge of creating a health care system that meets the needs of the entire population. With less income, Phoenix needs to address the issue of lowering health care costs so that it is affordable to its population. The most difficult test Phoenix will face will be that of maintaining a successful system with the large growth in the area. On the other hand, Boston will have to ensure that the current Health Care system is adequately meeting the needs of its entire population. With less diversity, and a higher median income, Boston legislatures cannot forget that with all statistics there are outliers which are not reflected in the numbers. When the numbers read 0% for a “white” population, the 10% remaining will need to fit within the health care system as well. Boston cannot just create a system made for “white” and wealthy individuals with a slow population growth, or part of the population will be forgotten.
Organization of the Health Care System
Physician Payment Arrangements
In Phoenix, Health Maintenance Organizations (HMO’s) currently enroll almost 0 percent of the total population, and all of the Medicaid population (Christianson et al., 17). In 15, Boston reported significantly higher HMO penetration at about 45% (Corrigan et al., 17). To avoid seeing uninsured patients for whom they will not be reimbursed, some specialists have stopped providing emergency room coverage in Phoenix (Draper et al., 001). Also according to Draper et al. (001), “…some specialists have cut back on their affiliations with traditional hospitals, choosing instead to devote more of their time to their own ambulatory treatment and surgery centers or specialty hospitals in which they have equity interests…these facilities offer the potential for physicians to generate higher incomes by sharing in facility profits”. “On the heels of financial difficulties that many attribute largely to managed care, physicians increasingly are refusing to enter into risk contracts with health plans, and health plans are reverting to fee-for-service payment” (Draper et al., 001, p. 1). In comparison, there is a good deal of cooperation between public and private purchasers in Boston (Corrigan et al., 17). 5% of Phoenix physicians and 61% of the Boston physicians are in practices receiving capitation for at least some of their patients (Lake & St. Peter, 17). Factors considered in determining physician compensation in the Phoenix area 1% for patient satisfaction surveys, % for measures of quality care, and % for practice profiles (Lake & St. Peter, 17). With Boston, the factors read differently % for patient satisfaction surveys, 17% for measures of quality of care, and 1% on practice profiles (Lake & St. Peter, 17).
Leadership Roles
In Phoenix, Private sector purchases have not played a major role in shaping the health care market, nor have other community organizations consistently exercised leadership in the health care arena (Christianson et al., 17). The same authors report that Phoenix health plans compete primarily on price for commercial enrollees and on benefits for Medicare enrollees, with little public information available that compares health plans in terms of patient satisfaction outcomes. A series of hospital acquisitions since 18 have left national firms in the health plan market, although a new focus on profitability is leading some to eliminate unprofitable lines of business (Draper et al., 001).
Cooperation seems to play an important role in Boston. Three large care delivery systems have emerged in the last few years as a result of mergers between major hospitals located in the city proper (Corrigan et al., 17). The respected leaders in the business community, organized consumer advocacy groups, and the public sector are not viewed as potent change forces (Corrigan et al., 17). Corrigan et al. (17, p. 1) also stated that “…virtually all respondents viewed the Boston health care system as very high quality…many expressed a strong commitment to protecting the market’s local institutions and preserving its not-for profit character”.
Choices in Health Plans
In Phoenix 66% of families have a choice in health plans (Trude, 000). This is in comparison to the more than 70% of families in Boston that have the same choice (Trude, 000). When it comes to opting between an HMO and a non-HMO, both cities report the same findings 58% of families have a choice.
Comparison and Analysis
Phoenix has faced challenges in the mergers between area hospitals and other health care organizations. While it seems as though Boston merges to help one another out, Phoenix seems to only be merging when they find themselves desperate. Phoenix and Boston both rank closely together with their choices to families regarding health plans, with Boston only performing slightly better. Phoenix, though, is faced with its physicians being more rigid about their compensation. What this information means for both cities is that they are both faced with the challenge of maintaining proper compensation for their physicians for the right reasons. Phoenix needs to realize that the dire state that the health care system is in, does not need to be hindered by cut-throat operating between the area hospitals and physicians. This will be vital in the health care organization’s success.
Clinical Practice and Delivery of Care
Access to Physicians
Boston seems to outshine not only Phoenix in its access to physicians, but the nation as a whole. In Phoenix, 18% of patients agree that their doctor might not refer them to a specialist when needed, compared to 1% in Boston (St. Peter, 17). St. Peter (17) also states that in Phoenix, % of primary care physicians report that they cannot always or almost always obtain referrals to high-quality specialists when medically necessary, versus a mere 1% that report the same problem in Boston. The Boston area does have 45% more physicians per 1,000 people than that of the national norm (% more primary care physicians and 58% more specialists) (Corrigan et al., 17).
Mental Health Services
Boston, again, is ahead of Phoenix in mental health services for its community. In Phoenix, 81 percent of primary care physicians indicate they cannot always or almost always obtain high-quality inpatient mental health care for their patients that need it (Shuchman & St. Peter, 17). The same authors (Shcuhman & St. Peter, 17) report only 6% of Boston’s primary care physicians have the same problem. The distance between the two cities is narrowed though, with closer reports of obtaining outpatient mental health services. 76% of primary care physicians in Phoenix, and 70% of Boston’s same physicians, report that they cannot always or almost always obtain outpatient mental health care for their patients that need it (Schuchman & St. Peter, 17).
Hospital Practice
In 18, hospitals in Phoenix began to increase their leverage with health plans, but financial pressures mounted as some physicians shifted focus from hospitals to independent specialty facilities (Draper et al., 001). The Phoenix market has 10 hospital systems (excluding specialty hospitals)- down form 1 systems two years ago (Draper et al., 001). In Boston, many hospitals have merged in recent years (Corrigan et al, 17). The number of hospital beds is also slightly higher than the national average (per 1,000 population) (Corrigan et al., 17), giving a significant advantage to Boston for the ability to provide service for its population.
Comparison and Analysis
It seems as though physicians in the Phoenix area do not have as much trust in their health plans as Boston area physicians report. There is much more frustration on the physician side in Phoenix for obtaining referrals to both specialists and mental health services. The hospital make-up in the Phoenix area does not have quite as strong of bonds to the community as the Boston area hospitals do. With doubt in the physicians mind, patient satisfaction in obtaining specialists and mental health services will be deeply affected. The lack of trust the doctors endure will have a trickle down effect on their patients. This will lead to many problems in the Phoenix area. Boston is providing more effective system with a higher number of hospital beds available to the population, something that Phoenix should really consider with its population growth. Boston definitely has an advantage over Phoenix in this entire area.
Care of the Poor
Statistics
A national hospital management company is credited with helping to stabilize the Phoenix community’s major safety-net provider, but concerns remain about the area’s capacity to care for the uninsured (Draper et al., 001). The Phoenix area has one of the highest rates of uninsured in the country, with more than one-quarter of the population lacking in coverage (Draper et al., 001). Roughly 10% of Boston’s population is living in poverty (Devers et al., 001). While the statistics are not quite as harsh as those in Phoenix, 8.1% of the “under 65” population have no health insurance, with % of that being Boston children under 18 (Devers et al., 001).
Improvements
Arizona has taken a step in the right direction to help cover the uninsured children in the state. “Arizona’s State Child Health Insurance Program (SCHIP), KidsCare, was implemented in November 18, and roughly 80,000 children have gained coverage as a result of KidsCare outreach efforts- half through Medicaid and half through SCHIP…state officials had originally hoped to enroll 60,000 children in KidsCare alone and are now stepping up efforts to reach this population” (Draper et al., 001, p. 1). Financial concerns are always an issue for the states when it comes to covering the poor, but an Arizona state ballot initiative passed in 14 which created a tobacco tax, with 70% of the revenues dedicated to subsidizing health care for the uninsured (Draper et al., 001). Also, “In November 000, Arizona citizens passed two competing state ballot initiatives- Proposition 00 and Proposition 04- that earmark the state’s $.1 billion tobacco settlement monies to expand coverage to the population without health insurance…the new funding will expand Medicaid eligibility by raising the income ceiling for eligibility to 100% of the federal poverty level, extending coverage to 10,000-180,000 Arizona residents who lack health insurance- a 0% increase over current Medicaid enrollment” (Draper et al., 001, p. 1).
The Boston community has a history of providing health care access to the poor and uninsured (Corrigan et al., 17). Though the city has less of a crisis, Boston has taken steps to improve its uninsured population. Expansions in Medicaid and the State Children’s Health Insurance Program helped to strengthen the safety net, causing the state’s uninsurance rate to drop considerably (Devers et al., 001). “Although attempts to provide universal insurance coverage have been unsuccessful, there have been continued incremental expansions in Medicaid eligibility” (Corrigan et al., 17, p. ). The state’s uncompensated care pool has represented a major source of revenue for the many community health centers (Corrigan et al., 17).
Problems with the Medicare System
In Phoenix, hospitals have noted significant increases in emergency room use by uninsured persons (Draper et al., 001). The deteriorating financial condition of the county hospital and its associated service delivery system is the dominant health policy issue (Christianson et al., 17). Whereas Boston has a very different problem…approximately ,000 Medicare beneficiaries in Massachusetts had to switch plans or select new physicians over the past year because some providers were unwilling to accept risk contracts for Medicare products (Devers et al., 001). Also, though state health reform passed legislation in the late 180’s including a mandate that employers directly provide health insurance coverage as part of their employee benefit package, it was never implemented (Corrigan et al., 17).
Comparison and Analysis
Phoenix again seems to suffer more in this division, with a higher percent of the population uninsured, it seems as though the gap is too wide for the city. Boston seems to put more of a focus on the poor and uninsured, and therefore places the issue at a higher priority. It would appear that Boston has a handle on the problems with their Medicare system, while Phoenix still has quite a bit further to go. With Phoenix facing such a large population growth, the impending problem will only grow for this health care system. This means that much more work is needed on the side of the state if a handle is going to be gotten on this massive problem. Even though Boston is not growing as fast, the problem of uninsured and the poor needs to stay at the top of the priority lists to keep the problem under control.
Future Issues
Phoenix
It is not known what effects that pressures- such as the hospital increasing negotiating leverage with health plans and physicians shifting to specialty facilities- will have on hospital prices and overall health costs (Draper et al., 001). As health plans attempt to restore profitability by increasing premiums, it is not known how the low-wage market will respond. “Will employers shift the increased costs to their employees? Will they drop coverage? Or will purchasers push for more tightly managed products?” (Draper et al., 001, p. 1). This is only the beginning for questions about the future of Phoenix’s health care system. “What impact will changes by health plans in their Medicare products have on the Phoenix market? Will Phoenix seniors see improved choice of plans, lower costs and/or expanded benefits? Will seniors return to traditional fee-for-service coverage?” (Draper et al., 001, p. 1). “How will increased funding allocated under recent ballot initiatives affect insurance coverage? Will the local safety net continue to have sufficient capacity to serve the uninsured?” (Draper et al., 001, p. 1).
Boston
After struggling for more than a decade, the financial health of Boston’s community hospitals also has deteriorated over the last two years, leading two hospitals to close and threatening service reductions and closures elsewhere (Devers et al., 001). “…policy makers are grappling with long-term solutions to hospitals’ financial problems. One strategy would involve increasing Medicaid reimbursement rates to cover hospital costs of care. A recent report commissioned by the Legislature concluded that this would cost $00 billion annually. However, some observers note that pressure on Medicaid to address severe financial problems in the state’s nursing home industry may take precedence over payment increases to hospitals” (Devers et al., 001, p. 1). The questions begin…“Will plans and community hospitals continue to experience financial instability, and, if so, what effects will this have on the makeup of the health system and continuity of care for consumers? Will threats of care disruption from health plan-provider contract disputes become a routing phenomenon in the Boston health care market, and, if so, what will the impact be on costs and consumers’ access to care? How will employers respond to rising premiums, and what effect will their response have on health plan products?” (Devers et al., 001, p. 1). Questions also arise whether or not the state will be able to maintain its high levels of care and coverage for low-income uninsured despite a potentially slowing economy (Devers et al, 001).
Conclusion
While Boston and Phoenix both will face challenges in the future, it is clear that Boston has a stronger foundation to build upon, and therefore will more than likely maintain a higher level of care for its population. Without some serious changes, Phoenix will be in grave danger of making health care even more inaccessible to its community. Phoenix should look at what other metropolitan areas are doing to make their system more of a success. Without a doubt, Boston has a more successful health care system in place today.
References
Christianson, J.B., Mechanic, R.E., St. Peter, R.F., Srinivasan, S. (17). Health system change in Phoenix, Arizona Round one site visit. Retrieved February 1, 00, from http//www.hschange.org/CONTENT//index.html
Corrigan, J.M., Mechanic, R.E., Solomon, L.S., & Williams, C. (17). Health system change in Boston Massachusetts Round one site visit. Retrieved February 4, 00, from http//www.hschange.org/CONTENT/1/index.html
Devers, K., Christianson, J.B., Felland, L.E., Felt-Lisk, S., Rudell, L., Brewster, L.R., Tu, H.T. (001). Financial woes and contract disputes disrupt market Community report no. 11. Retrieved February 5, 00, from http//www.hschange.org/CONTENT/50/
Draper, D.A., Brewster, L.R., Brown, L.D., Watts, C.A., Felland, L.E., Christianson, J.B., Sotddard, J., Park, M.H. (001). Rapid population growth attracts national firms Community report no. 04. Retrieved February 5, 00 from http//www.hschange.org/CONTENT//
Lake, T.K., St.Peter, R.F. (17). Payment arrangements and financial incentives for physicians Data bulletin no. 08. Retrieved February 1, 00 from http//www.hschange.org/CONTENT/8/?topic=topic0
Schuchman, M., St. Peter, R.F. (17). Physician care physicians concerned about patients’ access to mental health services Data Bulletin no. 06. Retrieved February 1, 00 from http//www.hschange.org/CONTENT/1/?topic=topic0
St. Peter, R.F. (17). Access to specialists Perspectives of patients and primary care physicians Data bulletin no. 0. Retrieved February 1, 00 from http//www.hschange.org/CONTENT/5/?topic=topic0
Trude, S. (000). Who has a choice in health plans? Issue Brief no. 7. Retrieved February 1,00 from http//www.hschange.org/CONTENT/55/index.html
Comparison and Analysis of Two American Health Care Systems Phoenix VS Boston
I. The purpose of this paper is to examine two American health care systems. Examining the differences between cities such as Phoenix and Boston will aid in future development of successful health care systems. Specifically, the issues discussed will be external factors affecting the cities health care, organization of the system, clinical practice and delivery of care, care of the poor, and future issues for each system.
A. Purpose Statement The purpose of this paper is to examine two American health care systems.
B. Scope Statement Examining the differences between cities such as Phoenix and Boston will aid in future development of successful health care systems.
C. Focus Statement Specifically, the issues discussed will be external factors affecting the cities health care, organization of the system, clinical practice and delivery of care, care of the poor, and future issues for each system.
II. External Factors Affecting the Health Care System
A. Population Growth
1. Phoenix
a. Rapid growth in the Phoenix are during the past three decades distinguishes it from other large metropolitan areas in the United States and has had quite an impact on its health care delivery system (Christianson et al, 17, p. 1).
b. Phoenix is one of the fastest-growing metropolitan areas in the United States and is expected to grow nearly percent annually over the next 15 years (Christianson et al, 17, p. ).
c. Population in Phoenix as of July 1 was a little over milllion (Draper et al, 001, p. 1).
. Boston
a. Population for Boston County in July of 1 was almost 4.5 million (Devers et al, 001, p. 1).
b. Population change between 10-1 was just .8% compared to the 8.6% in other metropolitan areas (Devers et al, 001, p. 1).
B. Income
1. Phoenix
The median income for Phoenix is $,15 (Draper et al, 001, p. 1).
. Boston
The median income is $1,868, compared with $7,84 for other metropolitan areas above 00,000 population (Devers et al, 001, p. 1).
C. Diversity
1. Phoenix
a. 1% of the population is 65 and over (Draper et al, 001, p.1).
b. Hispanics account for 17 percent of Phoenix’s population, well above the national average (Christianson et al, 17, p. ).
. Boston
a. 14% of the population is 65 and over in Boston, compared to 11% in other metropolitan areas (Devers et al, 001, p. 1).
b. Nearly 0 percent of the Boston are is Caucasian, compared with 75 percent as a whole (Corrigan et al, 17, p. ).
D. Comparison
In comparison of the population, Boston is larger, but Phoenix is one of the fastest-growing areas in the United States. The median income in Phoenix is slightly less than Boston, but is still above the national median. While Boston is “whiter” and healthier, Phoenix is more diverse in its population make-up.
E. Analysis
These comparisons mean a struggle for Phoenix. Being more diverse will present a challenge of creating a health care system that meets the needs of all the population. With less income, Phoenix needs to address the issue of lowering health care costs so that it is affordable to its population. The test Phoenix will face the hardest will be that of maintaining a successful system will the large growth in the area.
III. Organization of the Health Care System
A. Physician Payment Arrangements
1. Phoenix
a. Health Maintenance Organizations (HMO’s) currently enroll almost 0 percent of the total population, and all of the Medicaid population (Christianson et al, 17, p. 1).
b. To avoid seeing uninsured patients for whom they will not be reimbursed, some specialists have stopped providing emergency room coverage in Phoenix (Draper et al, 001, p. 1).
c. “…some specialists have cut back on their affiliations with traditional hospitals, choosing instead to devote more time to their own ambulatory treatment and surgery centers or specialty hospitals in which they have equity interests…these facilities offer the potential for physicians to generate higher incomes by sharing in facility profits” (Draper et al, 001, p. 1).
d. “On the heels of financial difficulties that many attribute largely to managed care, physicians increasingly are refusing to enter into risk contracts with health plans, and health plans are reverting to fee-for-service payment” (Draper et al, 001, p. 1).
e. 5 percent of Phoenix physicians are in practices receiving capitation for at least some of their patients (Lake and St. Peter, 17, p. 1)
f. Factors considered in determining physician compensation 1 percent for patient satisfaction surveys, percent for measures of quality of care, and percent for practice profiles (Lake and St. Peter, 17, p. 1)
. Boston
a. 61 percent of Boston physicians are in practices receiving capitation for at least some of their patients (Lake and St. Peter, 17, p. 1).
b. Factors considered in determining physician compensation percent for patient satisfaction surveys, 17 percent for measures of quality of care, and 1 percent on practice profiles (Lake and St. Peter, 17, p. 1).
B. Leadership Roles
1. Phoenix
a. Private sector purchases have not played a major role in shaping the health care market, nor have other community organizations consistently exercised leadership in the health care arena (Christianson et al, 17, p. 1)
b. Health plans compete primarily on price for commercial enrollees and on benefits for Medicare enrollees, with little public information available that compares health plans in terms of patient satisfaction outcomes (Christianson et al, 17, p. 1)
c. A series of hospital acquisitions since 18 have left national firms in the health plan market, although a new focus on profitability is leading some to eliminate unprofitable lines of business (Draper et al, 001, p. 1).
. Boston
a. Three large care delivery systems have emerged in the last few years as a result of mergers between major hospitals located in the city proper (Corrigan et al, 17, p. 1).
b. The respected leaders in the business community, organized consumer advocacy groups and the public sector are not viewed as potent change forces (Corrigan et al, 17, p.1).
c. “Virtually all respondents viewed the Boston health care system as very high quality…many expressed a strong commitment to protecting the market’s local institutions and preserving its not-for-profit character” (Corrigan et al, 17, p. 1).
C. Choices in Health Plans
1. Phoenix
a. 66 percent of families have a choice in a health plan (Trude, 000, p. 1).
b. 58 percent of families have a choice between and HMO and a non-HMO (Trude, 000, p. 1).
. Boston
a. More than 70 percent of families in Boston have a choice in a plan (Trude, 000, p. 1).
b. 58 percent of families have choice between and HMO and a non-HMO (Trude, 000, p. 1).
D. Comparison
Phoenix has faced challenges in the mergers between area hospitals and other health care organizations. While it seems as though Boston merges to help one another out, Phoenix seems to be only merging when they find themselves desperate. Phoenix and Boston both rank closely together with their choices given in health plans to families, with Boston only performing slightly better. Phoenix, though, is faced with its physicians being more rigid about their compensation.
E. Analysis
What this means for both cities is that they are both faced with the challenge of maintaining proper compensation for their physicians for the right reasons. Phoenix needs to realize that the dire state that the health system is in, does not need to be hindered by cut-throat operating between the area hospitals and physicians. This will be vital in the health care organization’s success.
IV. Clinical Practice and Delivery of Care
A. Access to Physicians
1. Phoenix
a. 18 percent of patients agree that their doctor might not refer them to a specialist when needed (St. Peter, 17, p. 1).
b. percent of primary care physicians reporrt that they cannot always or almost always obtain referrals to high-quality specialists when medically necessary (St. Peter, 17, p. 1).
. Boston
a. The Boston area has 45 percent more physicians per 1,000 people than that of the national norm ( percent more primary care physicians and 58 percent more specialists) (Corrigan et al, 17, p. ).
b. 1 percent of patients agree that their doctor might not refer them to a specialist when needed (St. Peter, 17, p. 1).
c. 1 percent or primary care physicians report that they cannot always or almost always obtain referrals to high-quality specialists when medically necessary (St.Peter, 17, p. 1).
B. Mental Health Services
1. Phoenix
a. 81 percent of primary care physicians indicate they cannot always or almost always obtain high-quality inpatient mental health care for their patients that need it (Shuchman and St. Peter, 17, p. 1).
b. 76 percent of primary care physicians report that they cannot always or almost always obtain outpatient mental health care for their patients that need it (Shuchman and St. Peter, 17, p. 1).
. Boston
a. 6 percent of primary care physicians report that they cannot always or almost always obtain inpatient mental health care for their patients that need it (Shuchman and St. Peter, 17, p. 1).
b. 70 percent of primary care physicians report that they cannot always or almost always obtain outpatient mental helath care for their patients that need it (Shcuchman and St. Peter, 17, p. 1).
C. Hospital Practice
1. Phoenix
a. In 18, hospitals began to increase their leverage with health plans, but financial pressures mounted as some physicians shifted focus from hospitals to independent specialty facilities (Draper et al, 001, p. 1).
b. The Phoenix market has 10 hospital systems (excluding specialty hospitals)- down from 1 systems two years ago (Draper et al, 001, p. 1).
. Boston
a. Many hospitals have merged in recent years (Corrigan et al, 17, p. 1).
b. The number of hospital beds is slightly higher than the national average (per 1,000 population) (Corrigan et al, 17, p. ).
D. Comparison
It seems as though physicians in the Phoenix area do not have as much trust in their health plans as Boston area physicians report. There is much more frustration on the physician side in Phoenix for obtaining referrals to both specialists and mental health services. The hospital make-up in the Phoenix area does not have quite as strong of bonds to the community as the Boston area hospitals do.
E. Analysis
With doubt in the physicians mind, patient satisfaction in obtaining specialists and mental health services will be deeply affected. The lack of trust the doctors endure will have a trickle down effect on their patients. This will lead to many problems in the Phoenix area. Boston definitely has an advantage over Phoenix in this entire area.
V. Care of the Poor
A. Statistics
1. Phoenix
a. A national hospital management company is credited with helping to stabilize the communitys major safety-net provider, but concerns remain about the areas capacity to care for the uninsured (Draper et al, 001, p. 1).
b. The Phoenix area has one of the highest rates of uninsurance in the country, with more than one-quarter of the population lacking coverage (Draper et al, 001, p. 1).
. Boston
a. Roughly 10% of Boston’s population is living in poverty (Devers et al, 001, p. 1).
b. 8.1% of the “under 65” population have no health insurance (Devers et al, 001, p. 1).
c. .0% of children under age 18 have no health insurance (Devers et al, 001, p.1).
B. Improvements
1. Phoenix
a. “Arizonas State Child Health Insurance Program (SCHIP), KidsCare, was implemented in November 18, and roughly 80,000 children have gained coverage as a result of KidsCare outreach efforts-half through Medicaid and half through SCHIP…state officials had originally hoped to enroll 60,000 children in KidsCare alone and are now stepping up efforts to reach this population” (Draper et al, 001, p.1).
b. An Arizona state ballot initiative passed in 14 created a tobacco tax, with 70 percent of the revenues dedicated to subsidizing health care for the uninsured (Draper et al, 001, p. 1).
c. “In November 000, Arizona citizens passed two competing state ballot initiatives- Proposition 00 and Proposition 04-that earmark the states $.1 billion tobacco settlement monies to expand coverage to the population without health insurance. Proposition 04 had the most votes and was recently approved by federal officials. The new funding will expand Medicaid eligibility by raising the income ceiling for eligibility to 100 percent of the federal poverty level, extending coverage to 10,000-180,000 Arizona residents who lack health insurance-a 0 percent increase over current Medicaid enrollment” (Draper et al, 001, p.1).
. Boston
a. Expansions in Medicaid and the State Childrens Health Insurance Program helped to strengthen the safety net, causing the states uninsurance rate to drop considerably (Devers et al, 001, p. 1).
b. Boston community has a history of providing health care access to the poor and uninsured (Corrigan et al, 17, p. ).
c. “Although attempts to provide universal insurance coverage have been unsuccessful, there have been continued incremental expansions in Medicaid eligibility” (Corrigan et al, 17, p. ).
d. The state’s uncompensated care pool has represented a major source of revenue for the many community health centers (Corrigan et al, 17, p. ).
C. Problems with the Medicare system
1. Phoenix
a. Hospitals have noted significant increases in emergency room use by uninsured persons (Draper et al, 001, p. 1).
b. Deteriorating financial condition of the county hospital and its associated service delivery system is the dominant health policy issue (Christianson et al, 17, p. 1).
. Boston
a. Approximately ,000 Medicare beneficiaries in Massachusetts had to switch plans or select new physicians over the past year because some providers were unwilling to accept risk contracts for Medicare products (Devers et al, 001, p. 1)
b. Though state health reform passed legislation in the late 180’s including a mandate that employers directly provide health insurance coverage as a part of their employee benefit package, it was never implemented (Corrigan et al, 17, p. ).
A. Comparison
Phoenix again seems to suffer more in this division, with a higher percent of population uninsured, it seems as though the gap is too wide for the city. Boston seems to put more of a focus on the poor and uninsured, and it seems to be a higher priority issue to them. It also seems as though Boston has a handle on the problems with their Medicare system, while Phoenix still has quite a bit further to go.
B. Analysis
With Phoenix facing such a large population growth, the impeding problem will only grow for this health system. This means that much more work is needed on the side of state if a handle is going to be gotten on this massive problem. Even though Boston is not growing as fast, the problem of uninsured and the poor needs to stay at the top of priority lists to keep the problem under control.
VI. Future Issues
A. Phoenix
1. It is not known what effects will contrary pressures- hospital increase8ing negotiating leverage with health plans and physicians shifting to specialty facilities- have on hospital prices and overall health costs (Draper et al, 001, p.1).
. As health plans attempt to restore profitability by increasing premiums, it is not known how the low-wage market will respond. “Will employers shift the increased costs to their employees? Will they drop coverage? Or will purchasers push for more tightly managed products? (Draper et al, 001, p.1).
4. “What impact will changes by health plans in their Medicare products have on the Phoenix market? Will Phoenix seniors see improved choice of plans, lower costs and/or expanded benefits? Will seniors return to traditional fee-for- service coverage?” (Draper et al, 001, p.1).
5. “How will increased funding allocated under recent ballot initiatives affect insurance coverage? Will the local safety net continue to have sufficient capacity to serve the remaining uninsured?” (Draper et al, 001, p.1).
B. Boston
1. After struggling for more than a decade, the financial health of Bostons community hospitals also has deteriorated over the last two years, leading two hospitals to close and threatening service reductions and closures elsewhere (Devers et al, 001, p. 1).
6. “…policy makers are grappling with long-term solutions to hospitals financial problems. One strategy would involve increasing Medicaid reimbursement rates to cover hospital costs of care. A recent report commissioned by the Legislature concluded that this would cost $00 million annually. However, some observers note that pressure on Medicaid to address severe financial problems in the states nursing home industry may take precedence over payment increases to hospitals” (Devers et al, 001, p. 1).
7. “Will plans and community hospitals continue to experience financial instability, and, if so, what effects will this have on the makeup of the health system and continuity of care for consumers?” (Devers et al, 001, p.1).
8. “Will threats of care disruption from health plan-provider contract disputes become a routine phenomenon in the Boston health care market, and, if so, what will the impact be on costs and consumers access to care?” (Devers et al, 001, p.1).
. “How will employers respond to rising premiums, and what effect will their response have on health plan products?” (Devers et al, 001, p. 1).
10. Questions arise whether or not the state will be able to maintain its high levels of care and coverage for low-income uninsured despite a potentially slowing economy (Devers et al, 001, p. 1)
VII. Conclusion
While Boston and Phoenix both will face challenges in the future, it is clear that Boston has a stronger foundation to build upon, and therefore will more than likely maintain a higher level of care for its population. Without a doubt, Boston has a more successful health care system in place today.
VIII. References
(See Reference Page)
References
Christianson, J.B., Mechanic, R.E., St. Peter, R.F., Srinivasan, S. (17). Health system change in Phoenix, Arizona Round one site visit. Retrieved February 1, 00, from http//www.hschange.org/CONTENT//index.html
Corrigan, J.M., Mechanic, R.E., Solomon, L.S., & Williams, C. (17). Health system change in Boston Massachusetts Round one site visit. Retrieved February 4, 00, from http//www.hschange.org/CONTENT/1/index.html
Devers, K., Christianson, J.B., Felland, L.E., Felt-Lisk, S., Rudell, L., Brewster, L.R., Tu, H.T. (001). Financial woes and contract disputes disrupt market Community report no. 11. Retrieved February 5, 00, from http//www.hschange.org/CONTENT/50/
Draper, D.A., Brewster, L.R., Brown, L.D., Watts, C.A., Felland, L.E., Christianson, J.B., Sotddard, J., Park, M.H. (001). Rapid population growth attracts national firms Community report no. 04. Retrieved February 5, 00 from http//www.hschange.org/CONTENT//
Lake, T.K., St.Peter, R.F. (17). Payment arrangements and financial incentives for physicians Data bulletin no. 08. Retrieved February 1, 00 from http//www.hschange.org/CONTENT/8/?topic=topic0
Schuchman, M., St. Peter, R.F. (17). Physician care physicians concerned about patients’ access to mental health services Data Bulletin no. 06. Retrieved February 1, 00 from http//www.hschange.org/CONTENT/1/?topic=topic0
St. Peter, R.F. (17). Access to specialists Perspectives of patients and primary care physicians Data bulletin no. 0. Retrieved February 1, 00 from http//www.hschange.org/CONTENT/5/?topic=topic0
Trude, S. (000). Who has a choice in health plans? Issue Brief no. 7. Retrieved February 1,00 from http//www.hschange.org/CONTENT/55/index.html
Comparison and Analysis of Two American Health Care Systems Phoenix VS Boston
The purpose of this paper is to examine two American health care systems. Examining the differences between cities such as Phoenix and Boston will aid in future development of successful health care systems. Specifically, the issues discussed will be external factors affecting the cities health care, organization of the system, clinical practice and delivery of care, care of the poor, and future issues for each system.
External Factors Affecting the Health Care System
Population Growth
Rapid growth in the Phoenix area during the past three decades distinguishes it from other large metropolitan areas in the United States, and has had quite an impact on its health care delivery system (Christianson, Mechanic, St. Peter & Srinivasan, 17, p. 1). The city also faces future challenges as being one of the fastest-growing metropolitan areas in the country, with the expectation for growth to be nearly percent annually over the next 15 years (Christianson et al., 17, p. ). The population of Phoenix as of July 1 was a little over million (Draper, Brewster, Brown, Watts, Felland, Christianson, Stoddard & Park, 001, p. 1). In contrast, population for Boston County in July of 1 was almost 4.5 million (Devers, Christianson, Felland, Felt-Lisk, Ruddell, Brewster, & Tu, 001, p. 1). The population change between 10-1 was just .8 percent compared to the 8.6 percent in other metropolitan areas (Devers et al., 001, p.1).
Income
The family income is an important external factor affecting the health care system for both cities. For metropolitan areas above 00,000 in population, the average median income is $7,84 (Devers et al., 001, p. 1). The median income for Phoenix is $,15 (Draper et al., 001, p.1). The median income for Boston is $1,868, well above the average metropolitan median (Devers et al., 001, p. 1).
Diversity
Phoenix has a very diverse population. The city has 1 percent of its population over the age of 65 (Draper et al., 001, p. 1). Hispanics account for 17 percent of the population, which is considerably above the national average (Christianson et al., 17, p. ). With a less ethnic make-up, nearly 0% of the Boston area is Caucasian, compared with 75 percent for the United States as a whole. Boston is similar to Phoenix with 14 percent of its population over the age of 65 (Devers et al., 001, p. 1).
Comparison and Analysis
In comparison of the population, Boston is larger, but Phoenix is one of the fastest-growing areas in the United States. The median income in Phoenix is slightly less than Boston, but is still above the national median. While Boston is “whiter” and healthier, Phoenix is more diverse in its population make-up.
These significant differences mean a struggle for Phoenix. Being more diverse will present a challenge of creating a health care system that meets the needs of all the population. With less income, Phoenix needs to address the issue of lowering health care costs so that it is affordable to its population. The test Phoenix will face the hardest will be that of maintaining a successful system with the large growth in the area.
Organization of the Health Care System
Physician Payment Arrangements
In Phoenix, Health Maintenance Organizations (HMO’s) currently enroll almost 0 percent of the total population, and all of the Medicaid population (Christianson et al., 17, p. 1). In 15, Boston reported significantly higher HMO penetration at about 45 percent (Corrigan et al., 17, p. ). To avoid seeing uninsured patients for whom they will not be reimbursed, some specialists have stopped providing emergency room coverage in Phoenix (Draper et al., 001, p. 1). Also according to Draper et al. (001), “…some specialists have cut back on their affiliations with traditional hospitals, choosing instead to devote more of their time to their own ambulatory treatment and surgery centers or specialty hospitals in which they have equity interests…these facilities offer the potential for physicians to generate higher incomes by sharing in facility profits”. “On the heels of financial difficulties that many attribute largely to managed care, physicians increasingly are refusing to enter into risk contracts with health plans, and health plans are reverting to fee-for-service payment” (Draper et al., 001, p. 1). In comparison, there is a good deal of cooperation between public and private purchasers in Boston (Corrigan et al., 17, p. ). 5 percent of Phoenix physicians are in practices receiving capitation for at least some of their patients (Lake & St. Peter, 17, p. 1). For Boston, 61 percent of the physicians are in practices receiving capitation for at least some of their patients (Lake & St. Peter, 17, p. 1). Factors considered in determining physician compensation in the Phoenix area 1 percent for patient satisfaction surveys, percent for measures of quality care, and percent for practice profiles (Lake & St. Peter, 17, p. 1). With Boston, the factors read differently percent for patient satisfaction surveys, 17 percent for measures of quality of care, and 1 percent on practice profiles (Lake & St. Peter, 17, p. 1).
Leadership Roles
In Phoenix, Private sector purchases have not played a major role in shaping the health care market, nor have other community orgaizations consistently exercised leadership in the health care arena (Christianson et al., 17, p. 1). The same authors report that Phoenix health plans compete primarily on price for commercial enrollees and on benefits for Medicare enrollees, with little public information available that compares health plans in terms of patient satisfaction outcomes. A series of hospital acquisitions since 18 have left national firms in the health plan market, although a new focus on profitability is leading some to eliminate unprofitable lines of business (Draper et al., 001, p. 1).
Cooperation seems to play an important role in Boston. Three large care delivery systems have emerged in the last few years as a result of mergers between major hospitals located in the city proper (Corrigan et al., 17, p. 1). The respected leaders in the business community, organized consumer advocacy groups, and the public sector are not viewed as potent change forces (Corrigan et al., 17, p. 1). Corrigan et al. (17) also stated that “…virtually all respondents viewed the Boston health care system as very high quality…many expressed a strong commitment to protecting the market’s local institutions and preserving its not-for profit character”.
Choices in Health Plans
In Phoenix 66 percent of families have a choice in health plans (Trude, 000, p. 1). This is in comparison to the more than 70 percent of families in Boston that have the same choice (Trude, 000, p. 1). When it comes to opting between an HMO and a non-HMO, both cities report the same findings 58 percent of families have a choice.
Comparison and Analysis
Phoenix has faced challenges in the mergers between area hospitals and other health care organizations. While it seems as though Boston merges to help one another out, Phoenix seems to only be merging when they find themselves desperate. Phoenix and Boston both rank closely together with their choices to families regarding health plans, with Boston only performing slightly better. Phoenix, though, is faced with its physicians being more rigid about their compensation.
What this information means for both cities is that they are both faced with the challenge of maintaining proper compensation for their physicians for the right reasons. Phoenix needs to realize that the dire state that the health care system is in, does not need to be hindered by cut-throat operating between the area hospitals and physicians. This will be vital in the health care organization’s success.
Clinical Practice and Delivery of Care
Access to Physicians
Boston seems to outshine not only Phoenix in its access to physicians, but the nation as a whole. In Phoenix, 18 percent of patients agree that their doctor might not refer them to a specialist when needed, compared to 1 percent in Boston (St. Peter, 17, p. 1). St. Peter (17) also states that in Phoenix, percent of primary care physicians report that they cannot always or almost always obtain referrals to high-quality specialists when medically necessary, versus a mere 1 percent that report the same problem in Boston. The Boston area does have 45 percent more physicians per 1,000 people than that of the national norm ( percent more primary care physicians and 58 percent more specialists) (Corrigan et al., 17, p. ).
Mental Health Services
Boston, again, is ahead of Phoenix on mental health services for its community. In Phoenix, 81 percent of primary care physicians indicate they cannot always or almost always obtain high-quality inpatient mental health care for their patients that need it (Shuchman & St. Peter, 17, p. 1). The same authors (Shcuhman & St. Peter, 17, p. 1) report only 6 percent of Boston’s primary care physicians have the same problem. The distance between the two cities is narrowed though, with closer reports of obtaining outpatient mental health services. 76 percent of primary care physicians in Phoenix, and 70 percent of Boston’s same physicians, report that they cannot always or almost always obtain outpatient mental health care for their patients that need it (Schuchman & St. Peter, 17, p. 1).
Hospital Practice
In 18, hospitals in Phoenix began to increase their leverage with health plans, but financial pressures mounted as some physicians shifted focus from hospitals to independent specialty facilities (Draper et al., 001, p. 1). The Phoenix market has 10 hospital systems (excluding specialty hospitals)- down form 1 systems two years ago (Draper et al., 001 p. 1). In Boston, many hospitals have merged in recent years (Corrigan et al, 17, p. 1). The number of hospital beds is also slightly higher than the national average (per 1,000 population) (Corrigan et al., 17, p. ).
Comparison and Analysis
It seems as though physicians in the Phoenix area do not have as much trust in their health plans as Boston area physicians report. There is much more frustration on the physician side in Phoenix for obtaining referrals to both specialists and mental health services. The hospital make-up in the Phoenix area does not have quite as strong of bonds to the community as the Boston area hospitals do.
With doubt in the physicians mind, patient satisfaction in obtaining specialists and mental health services will be deeply affected. The lack of trust the doctors endure will have a trickle down effect on their patients. This will lead to many problems in the Phoenix area. Boston definitely has an advantage over Phoenix in this area.
Care of the Poor
Statistics
A national hospital management company is credited with helping to stabilize the Phoenix community’s major safety-net provider, but concerns remain about the area’s capacity to care for the uninsured (Draper et al., 001, p. 1). The Phoenix area has one of the highest rates of uninsured in the country, with more than one-quarter of the population lacking in coverage (Draper et al., 001, p.1). Roughly 10 percent of Boston’s population is living in poverty (Devers et al., 001, p. 1). While the statistics are not quite as harsh as those in Phoenix, 8.1 percent of the “under 65” population have no health insurance, with percent of that being Boston children under 18 (Devers et al., 001, p. 1).
Improvements
Arizona has taken a step in the right direction to help cover the uninsured children in the state. “Arizona’s State Child Health Insurance Program (SCHIP), KidsCare, was implemented in November 18, and roughly 80,000 children have gained coverage as a result of KidsCare outreach efforts- half through Medicaid and half through SCHIP…state officials had originally hoped to enroll 60,000 children in KidsCare alone and are now stepping up efforts to reach this population” (Draper et al., p. 1). Financial concerns are always an issue for the states when it comes to covering the poor, but an Arizona state ballot initiative passed in 14 which created a tobacco tax, with 70 percent of the revenues dedicated to subsidizing health care for the uninsured (Draper et al., 001, p. 1). Also, “In November 000, Arizona citizens passed two competing state ballot initiatives- Proposition 00 and Proposition 04- that earmark the state’s $.1 billion tobacco settlement monies to expand coverage to the population without health insurance. Proposition 04 had the most votes and was recently approved by federal officials. The new funding will expand Medicaid eligibility by raising the income ceiling for eligibility to 100 percent of the federal poverty level, extending coverage to 10,000-180,000 Arizona residents who lack health insurance- a 0 percent increase over current Medicaid enrollment” (Draper et al., 001, p. 1).
The Boston community has a history of providing health care access to the poor and uninsured (Corrigan et al., 17, p. ). Though the city has less of a crisis, Boston has taken steps to improve its uninsured population. Expansions in Medicaid and the State Children’s Health Insurance Program helped to strengthen the safety net, causing the state’s uninsurance rate to drop considerably (Devers et al., 001, p. 1). “Although attempts to provide universal insurance coverage have been unsuccessful, there have been continued incremental expansions in Medicaid eligibility” (Corrigan et al., 17, p. ). The state’s uncompensated care pool has represented a major source of revenue for the many community health centers (Corrigan et al., 17, p. ).
Problems with the Medicare System
In Phoenix, hospitals have noted significant increases in emergency room use by uninsured persons (Draper et al., 001, p. 1). The deteriorating financial condition of the county hospital and its associated service delivery system is the dominant health policy issue (Christianson et al., 17, p. 1). Whereas Boston has a very different problem…approximately ,000 Medicare beneficiaries in Massachusetts had to switch plans or select new physicians over the past year because some providers were unwilling to accept risk contracts for Medicare products (Devers et al., 001, p. 1). Also, though state health reform passed legislation in the late 180’s including a mandate that employers directly provide health insurance coverage as part of their employee benefit package, it was never implemented (Corrigan et al., 17, p. ).
Comparison and Analysis
Phoenix again seems to suffer more in this division, with a higher percent of the population uninsured, it seems as though the gap is too wide for the city. Boston seems to put more of a focus on the poor and uninsured, and therefore places the issue at a higher priority. It would appear that Boston has a handle on the problems with their Medicare system, while Phoenix still has quite a bit further to go.
With Phoenix facing such a large population growth, the impending problem will only grow for this health care system. This means that much more work is needed on the side of the state if a handle is going to be gotten on this massive problem. Even though Boston is not growing as fast, the problem of uninsured and the poor needs to stay at the top of the priority lists to keep the problem under control.
Future Issues
Phoenix
It is not known what effects will contrary pressures- hospital increasing negotiating leverage with health plans and physicians shifting to specialty facilities- have on hospital prices and overall health costs (Draper et al., 001, p. 1). As health plans attempt to restore profitability by increasing premiums, it is not known how the low-wage market will respond. “Will employers shift the increased costs to their employees? Will they drop coverage? Or will purchasers push for more tightly managed products?” (Draper et al., 001, p. 1). That is only the beginning for questions about the future of Phoenix’s health care system. “What impact will changes by health plans in their Medicare products have on the Phoenix market? Will Phoenix seniors see improved choice of plans, lower costs and/or expanded benefits? Will seniors return to traditional fee-for-service coverage?” (Draper et al., 001, p. 1). “How will increased funding allocated under recent ballot initiatives affect insurance coverage? Will the local safety net continue to have sufficient capacity to serve the uninsured?” (Draper et al., 001, p. 1).
Boston
After struggling for more than a decade, the financial health of Boston’s community hospitals also has deteriorated over the last two years, leading two hospitals to close and threatening service reductions and closures elsewhere (Devers et al., 001, p. 1). “…policy makers are grappling with long-term solutions to hospitals’ financial problems. One strategy would involve increasing Medicaid reimbursement rates to cover hospital costs of care. A recent report commissioned by the Legislature concluded that this would cost $00 billion annually. However, some observers not that pressure on Medicaid to address severe financial problems in the state’s nursing home industry may take precedence over payment increases to hospitals” (Devers et al., 001, p. 1). Then the questions start to come in about the future of Boston’s health care plan. “Will plans and community hospitals continue to experience financial instability, and, if so, what effects will this have on the makeup of the health system and continuity of care for consumers? Will threats of care disruption from health plan-provider contract disputes become a routing phenomenon in the Boston health care market, and, if so, what will the impact be on costs and consumers’ access to care? How will employers respond to rising premiums, and what effect will their response have on health plan products?” (Devers et al., 001, p. 1). Questions also arise whether or not the state will be able to maintain its high levels of care and coverage for low-income uninsured despite a potentially slowing economy (Devers et al, 001, p. 1).
Conclusion
While Boston and Phoenix both will face challenges in the future, it is clear that Boston has a stronger foundation to build upon, and therefore will more than likely maintain a higher level of care for its population. Without some serious changes, Phoenix will be in grave danger of making health care even more inaccessible to its community. Phoenix should look at what other metropolitan areas are doing to make their system more of a success. Without a doubt, Boston has a more successful health care system in place today.
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