The word value describes the relative worth, utility, or importance of something in particular. In the healthcare system, patients, providers, employers, insurers and others may have different perspectives of value in healthcare. A patient’s perspective on value in healthcare through the menopause journey is an important topic to consider.
What is value in healthcare?
There are many definitions of value in healthcare. Some focus on the relationship between healthcare outcomes and resources used. Also, different stakeholders in the healthcare system may have different perspectives of the value of healthcare. For example, if a patient has a medical problem, she may find value in a medicine or therapy that treats the symptoms associated with the condition.
A doctor may find value from a healthcare recommendation that prevents or delays a medical problem from occurring in a patient. An employer might find value in healthcare activities that help their employees come to work every-day. Ultimately, however, the value in healthcare that a patient experiences can only be determined by the patient.
What are some ways patient's experience value in healthcare?
Patients receive healthcare in a system. Because of this they may experience value in healthcare from different elements within the system such as:
- Visits with their doctor or healthcare providers
- Efforts to prevent disease or maintain healthy living
- Laboratory and radiology tests to evaluate medical problems
- Medicines or vaccines to treat or prevent disease, illness or symptoms
- Other healthcare support or services
Patients may also consider their:
- Access to care
- Coordination of care
- Continuity of care
- Communication of care
- Respect to their choices or needs.
Why is it important for a woman to consider value in healthcare and menopause?