- Higher Telehealth Use Does Not Lead to More Low-Value Care
- Standardized Patient Communication and Low-Value Spinal Imaging
- Spending on Low-Value Care Increased in Virginia During the COVID-19 Pandemic
- Three Medical Practices That Older Patients Should Question
- Evaluation of LVC Across Major Medicare Advantage Insurers and Traditional Medicare
- Medicare Spends $2B on Unneeded Back Surgeries
- Ways to Save Money in Health Care
Higher Telehealth Use Does Not Lead to More Low-Value Care
A recent JAMA Network Open study found no increase in unnecessary tests and scans at primary care practices that utilized telehealth more frequently than those with low telehealth use. The research examined eight types of low-value care and showed that high telehealth use did not lead to increased low-value procedures. In some cases, such as cervical cancer screenings for women over 65, high telehealth practices saw a faster reduction in low-value care.
Standardized Patient Communication and Low-Value Spinal Imaging
A randomized clinical trial evaluated whether a communication intervention using standardized patient instructors could reduce low-value lumbar spinal imaging for uncomplicated low-back pain among 53 primary care clinicians. Despite three educational visits emphasizing empathy and a watchful waiting approach, the intervention did not significantly affect imaging rates over an 18-month follow-up. While clinicians demonstrated improved communication skills, the findings suggest that such interventions alone may not reduce unnecessary spinal imaging.
Spending on Low-Value Care Increased in Virginia During the COVID-19 Pandemic
A study published in Health Affairs Scholar reported that the utilization of low-value care was 7% higher than pre-pandemic rates during 2021. While it is encouraging that Virginians with the greatest socioeconomic deprivation received 15% less low-value care than pre-pandemic, they also received 16% less clinically-indicated care, suggesting potential widening of health care disparities. These results underscore the need for policy-level efforts to reduce the delivery of inappropriate care while facilitating utilization of high-value health care services that enhance health outcomes and health equity.
Three Medical Practices That Older Patients Should Question
Recent studies have identified three common medical practices that may not benefit older patients as previously thought. These include the routine use of thickened liquids for swallowing difficulties, the interruption of blood pressure medications before surgery, and the prescription of certain medications for older adults. The findings suggest that these interventions might not provide the intended advantages and could potentially pose risks. It is essential for healthcare providers and patients to re-evaluate these practices to ensure optimal care for the elderly population. Read more here.
A recent study published in JAMA Network Open compared the utilization of low-value services (LVS) between traditional Medicare (TM) and Medicare Advantage (MA) beneficiaries. The findings revealed that MA enrollees received fewer LVS compared to those in TM, with significant variations observed among different MA insurers. This suggests that certain MA plans may be more effective in reducing unnecessary medical services, highlighting the potential for policy interventions to enhance care efficiency across Medicare programs.
Medicare Spent $2B on Unneeded Back Surgeries
A recent analysis by the Lown Institute revealed that over a three-year period, Medicare expended approximately $2 billion on more than 200,000 unnecessary back surgeries, including spinal fusions, laminectomies, and vertebroplasties. These procedures, often performed without appropriate clinical indications, not only imposed significant financial burdens but also exposed patients to avoidable risks such as infections and failed back surgery syndrome. The study underscores the need for stricter adherence to evidence-based guidelines to prevent overuse and ensure patient safety. Read more here.
Ways to Save Money in Health Care
A recent article in JAMA Health Forum highlights three key strategies to reduce healthcare costs without compromising patient care. First, promoting healthier lifestyles can lower the incidence of chronic diseases, reducing the overall need for medical care. Second, eliminating low-value services—medical interventions that offer minimal benefit—can prevent unnecessary spending. Finally, enhancing efficiency in care delivery, such as streamlining administrative processes and adopting evidence-based practices, can improve care quality while cutting costs. These approaches require collaboration among policymakers, healthcare providers, and patients to build a more sustainable healthcare system.
