Author: Qualify Health

Imagine a healthcare system where zip code doesn’t dictate diagnoses, skin color doesn’t predict prognosis, and access to quality care isn’t gated by privilege. This utopian vision may seem distant, but a wave of innovative hospital systems are actively building bridges toward that reality, tackling the entrenched health equity crisis head-on. Let’s delve into their groundbreaking initiatives, unraveling the threads of their success and weaving new possibilities for a more just healthcare landscape.

Boston Medical Center (BMC):

Boston Medical Center stands as a beacon of hope, recognizing healthcare can’t exist in a vacuum. Their “Thrive” program is a testament to this philosophy.Instead of solely treating ailments, they screen patients for social determinants of health (SDOH) like food, insecurity, and unstable housing, acting as navigators through a labyrinth of social services. Coming across a diabetic patient struggling with food access; “Thrive” connects them to a local food bank, ensuring their insulin isn’t rendered ineffective by an empty stomach. This holistic approach isn’t just feel-good – studies show a decrease in hospital readmissions and improved patient satisfaction, proving that addressing SDOH isn’t charity, it is smart healthcare.

Montefiore Health System

Montefiore is recognized by the U.S. News and World Report as a leader in chronic and specialty care as well as in children’s health.Language shouldn’t be a barrier to health, recognizing this, Montefiore Health System launched the “Language Access Project,” a tapestry woven with culturally competent care navigators and translated materials. Consider a Spanish-speaking grandmother worried about her grandson’s asthma, unable to navigate the complexities of the healthcare system. A “Language Access Project” navigator acts as a bridge, ensuring clear communication and culturally appropriate care, empowering both patient and provider. Montefiore Medical Center has taken great steps in implementing an interpreter services program that assists their non-English patients and their families in communicating with the medical staff.This initiative isn’t just about translation; it is about building trust and ensuring everyone feels welcome and understood within the healthcare system.

Providence Health and Services

True change requires long-term vision. Providence Health & Services understands this deeply. Their “Community Health Worker Academy” isn’t just a training program; it is an investment in the future. The Community Health Worker Academy is a collaboration between Providence and Charles R. Drew University of Medicine and Science with the goal of training people as community health workers to assist patients in clinical settings by facilitating access to care for at-risk populations.Through this academy, we can have a diverse group of healthcare leaders, reflecting the communities they serve, equipped with the skills and knowledge to champion inclusion and dismantle systemic biases. This isn’t just about ticking diversity boxes; it is about ensuring a healthcare system that understands and serves the needs of all its patients.

Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta

Similarly, Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta recognizes early intervention is key. Their Care4All children services bring primary care and preventive services directly to underserved communities.

Imagine a child in a remote rural area receiving the same quality care as their urban counterparts. This proactive approach ensures equitable access to healthcare from a young age, laying the foundation for a healthier future for all.

Norton Healthcare’s move to stop systemic racism

According to HFMA, the lack of access to healthcare services in Louisville’s underserved West End was an example of systemic racism that fueled racial and health inequities. Russell Cox the CEO of Norton Healthcare put plans in place to build a $70 million hospital in North West Louisville. Norton pledged a new focus on health equity in 2020 when they discovered how dangerous systemic racism can be.

Challenges and the Road Forward: Paving the Way with Collaboration

While these initiatives paint a hopeful picture, the road to health equity is far from smooth. Funding, ingrained biases, and community engagement remain formidable challenges. However, despair is not an option. By sharing best practices, fostering collaboration, and prioritizing long-term commitment, hospital systems can become powerful change agents.

There is the possibility of having a network of hospitals, sharing data, strategies, and resources, united in their pursuit of health equity. This collective effort can pave the way for systemic change, ensuring healthcare becomes a right, not a privilege.

The Call to Action: Building Bridges TogetherThe fight for health equity requires more than just hospital systems; it demands collective action. Here’s how you can contribute:Hold hospitals accountable: Ask your local hospital about their health equity initiatives and share your concerns.

The Call to Action: Building Bridges TogetherThe fight for health equity requires more than just hospital systems; it demands collective action. Here’s how you can contribute:Hold hospitals accountable: Ask your local hospital about their health equity initiatives and share your concerns.

Support community organizations: Donate or volunteer with organizations working towards health equity in your community.

Advocate for policy changes: Support policies that address SDOH and promote equitable access to healthcare.

Spread awareness: Share information and stories about health equity with your friends, family, and network.

Together, we can weave a tapestry of hope, bridging the gaps in access and building a healthcare system where everyone thrives, regardless of zip code, skin color, or any other social determinant. Let’s make the journey towards health equity a collective endeavor, one step, one bridge, one voiceQualify Health works with healthcare systems across the country to help solve the Health Equity crisis. These include:

Insurance payments for patients

Transportation assistance

Philanthropic solutions to patient medical bills

Charitable assistance to help patients pay their medical bills.

For more information about Patient Financial Advocacy Solutions, contact Qualify Health at (888)770-7191.

Imagine needing a crucial medical appointment only to be met by the insurmountable obstacle of transportation. This is not just a hypothetical scenario, this is a stark reality for millions across the country.

There are five social determinants of health domains, and health care access and quality is one of them.

According to the American Hospital Association, each year, 3.6 million people in the United States do not obtain medical care due to transportation issues.

This blog delves deep into the complex interplay between transportation issues and patient health outcomes, exploring the challenges, highlighting the consequences, and unveiling potential solutions.

How Transportation Affects Patient Outcomes

Millions of people miss or delay healthcare because of transportation hurdles. Rural areas with limited public transit bear the brunt of this issue. Urban residents are far from immune. Car ownership limitations, cost constraints, and disability concerns can all create transportation barriers in cities.

The impact of transportation issues on health outcomes is not equally distributed. Low-income individuals, older adults, people with disabilities, and residents of underserved communities shoulder the burden. This worsens existing health disparities, creating a vicious cycle where lack of transportation leads to poorer health outcomes, further limiting their ability to access the very resources they need.

The consequences of transportation barriers impact patients in profound ways:

Missed and Delayed Care

According to the HFMA, 5% of all U.S. adults reported forgoing healthcare due to transportation barriers. 

Difficulty reaching appointments leads to missed screenings, delayed diagnoses, and non-adherence to treatment plans. These missed opportunities can worsen chronic conditions like diabetes or heart disease, increasing the risk of complications and ultimately leading to poorer health outcomes.

Stress and Anxiety

The uncertainty and stress associated with securing transportation add an additional layer of burden. Patients worry about missing appointments, potential health consequences, and the financial strain it may cause, impacting their overall well-being.

Financial Strain

The cost of alternative transportation, missed work due to appointments, and potential penalties for missed appointments can create a significant financial burden, further hindering access to healthcare.

Addressing Transportation Issues that impact patient outcomes

Addressing this complex problem requires a multi-pronged approach. Multiple strategies should be employed to bridge the transportation gaps for patients. All stakeholders must collaborate to proffer solutions to this problem.

Public Transportation Expansion 

Expanding public transit coverage, frequency, and affordability, particularly in underserved areas, is crucial to increase accessibility. Imagine convenient bus routes or affordable rail connections bridging the gap between patients and healthcare facilities.

Transportation Assistance Programs 

Government and community-based programs offering vouchers, rideshares, or volunteer-driven transportation can provide vital support. Picture voucher programs easing financial constraints or volunteer drivers offering a friendly face and reliable ride to appointments.

Telehealth Services 

Expanding access to telehealth services can offer a valuable alternative for certain appointments, reducing travel needs. Imagine consultations with specialists happening virtually, eliminating the need for lengthy journeys and long waits in waiting rooms.

Healthcare System Initiatives 

Hospitals and clinics can play a crucial role by exploring transportation partnerships, offering flexible scheduling options, partnerships with local transportation providers or flexible appointment times catering to patient needs, making healthcare more accessible.

Conclusion

The road to improved health outcomes and health equity lies in dismantling the transportation barriers that impede access to health care.

 By raising awareness, advocating for accessible, affordable, and reliable transportation options, and supporting organizations addressing this issue, we can collectively unravel the tangled web and weave a path toward a future where healthcare is truly within reach for all. Let’s bridge the gap in transportation, and in doing so, bridge the gap in healthcare access.

Sourcing funds for managing long-term or chronic illness is a key element needed to reduce the financial burden placed on patients. 

Qualify Health’s Patient Financial Advocacy solution makes it easy for hospitals to help their patients obtain financial assistance such as co-pay premium, transportation assistance, and more. This financial assistance enables patients to pay for the treatment they need as well as living expenses instead of having to choose.

For more information about Patient Financial Advocacy Solutions, contact Qualify Health at (888)770-7191.

The American dream promises opportunity and prosperity for all, yet the reality holds a starkly different picture. While some individuals navigate life with relative ease, accessing quality healthcare, healthy food, and safe housing, others face an uphill battle against a powerful and often invisible enemy: social determinants of health (SDOH). 

These non-medical factors, encompassing the circumstances in which we are born, live, work, and age, profoundly impact our health and well-being, weaving a complex tapestry of inequities that disproportionately burden specific populations.

An Uneven Playing Field: Racial and Ethnic Minorities

For some racial and ethnic communities in the United States, the deck is often stacked against them. Historical disadvantages have resulted in persistent socioeconomic disparities, with a higher prevalence of poverty, unemployment, and lack of health insurance.

These factors translate into tangible risks – living in neighborhoods burdened by environmental hazards like pollution and food deserts, lacking access to quality healthcare, and navigating a system plagued by implicit bias. 

The consequences are stark: higher rates of chronic diseases like heart disease, diabetes, and certain cancers cast a long shadow over individual lives and communities.

Caught in the Crosshairs: Low-Income Individuals and Families

Financial insecurity casts a long shadow, weaving stress, anxiety, and unhealthy coping mechanisms into the fabric of daily life for low-income individuals and families. 

The struggle to make ends meet often compromises healthy food choices, forcing families to rely on processed options loaded with sugar and unhealthy fats. 

Housing instability adds another layer of vulnerability, exposing residents to unsafe living conditions and environmental hazards. Access to healthcare becomes a constant hurdle, with limited insurance coverage or geographical barriers impeding timely diagnosis and treatment.

The cumulative effect? Increased susceptibility to preventable diseases, exacerbating existing health conditions and perpetuating a vicious cycle of ill health and economic hardship.

Rural Realities: Challenges Beyond the City Limits

For those residing in rural America, healthcare deserts pose a significant challenge. The shortage of healthcare providers and specialists, particularly in mental health and specialized care, creates a daunting obstacle for those seeking essential services.

Transportation barriers add another layer of complexity, forcing long-distance journeys just to access basic healthcare. Access to healthy food can be limited, with grocery stores few and far between, and fresh produce often prohibitively expensive. 

These factors contribute to higher rates of obesity, chronic diseases, and mental health issues, highlighting the need for targeted interventions and increased resource allocation to meet the unique needs of rural communities.

Vulnerable Beginnings: Children and Adolescents Facing an Unequal Start

The consequences of SDOH are tragically evident in the lives of children and adolescents. Growing up in environments characterized by poverty, food insecurity, exposure to violence, and inadequate education puts them at a significant disadvantage. 

These factors negatively impact their physical and mental health development, increasing the risk of chronic diseases, behavioral problems, and academic struggles. 

Early intervention and targeted programs are crucial to break the cycle of intergenerational poverty and ill health, providing vital support during these formative years and ensuring all children have the opportunity to reach their full potential.

Beyond Awareness: Building a More Equitable Future

Recognizing the unequal playing field created by SDOH is the first step towards a more just healthcare system. However, awareness alone is insufficient. 

Concrete action is needed, demanding a multi-pronged approach that tackles disparities at their root:

Policy Advocacy: 

Championing policies that address SDOH by promoting economic equity, ensuring access to quality healthcare and healthy food, and investing in community-based initiatives that empower underserved populations.

Community Engagement: 

Partnering with local organizations and community leaders to identify specific needs and develop culturally tailored interventions that address health challenges within specific populations.

Public Education: 

Raising awareness about the impact of SDOH and promoting individual and collective action to dismantle discriminatory practices and advocate for systemic change.

Learn How Qualify Health Can Help

Qualify Health works with healthcare systems across the country to help solve the health equity crisis. Our organization partners with hospitals and providers to find solutions that help solve SDOH.

We do this via different means which include insurance payments for patients, transportation assistance, and philanthropic solutions to patient medical bills. These solutions help to improve people’s overall health and well-being regardless of their socioeconomic status.

For more information about our services, contact Qualify Health please visit us at www.qualify.health

Conclusion

By acknowledging the intersection of SDOH and specific populations, we can move beyond mere statistics and delve into the lived experiences of those facing immense challenges. This deeper understanding fuels our commitment to dismantling the invisible barriers

The American dream promises opportunity and prosperity for all, yet the reality holds a starkly different picture. While some individuals navigate life with relative ease, accessing quality healthcare, healthy food, and safe housing, others face an uphill battle against a powerful and often invisible enemy: social determinants of health (SDOH). 

These non-medical factors, encompassing the circumstances in which we are born, live, work, and age, profoundly impact our health and well-being, weaving a complex tapestry of inequities that disproportionately burden specific populations.

Uneven Playing Field: Racial and Ethnic Minorities

For communities of color in the united states, the deck is often stacked against themand it has resulted in persistent socioeconomic disparities, with a higher prevalence of poverty, unemployment, and lack of health insurance compared to their white counterparts.

These factors translate into tangible risks – living in neighborhoods burdened by environmental hazards like pollution and food deserts, lacking access to quality healthcare, and navigating a system plagued by implicit bias. 

The consequences are stark: higher rates of chronic diseases like heart disease, diabetes, and certain cancers cast a long shadow over individual lives and communities.

Caught in the Crosshairs: Low-Income Individuals and Families

Financial insecurity casts a long shadow, weaving stress, anxiety, and unhealthy coping mechanisms into the fabric of daily life for low-income individuals and families. 

The struggle to make ends meet often compromises healthy food choices, forcing families to rely on processed options loaded with sugar and unhealthy fats. 

Housing instability adds another layer of vulnerability, exposing residents to unsafe living conditions and environmental hazards. Access to healthcare becomes a constant hurdle, with limited insurance coverage or geographical barriers impeding timely diagnosis and treatment.

The cumulative effect? Increased susceptibility to preventable diseases, exacerbating existing health conditions, and perpetuating a vicious cycle of ill health and economic hardship.

Rural Realities: Challenges Beyond the City Limits

For those residing in rural America, healthcare deserts pose a significant challenge. The shortage of healthcare providers and specialists, particularly in mental health and specialized care, creates a daunting obstacle for those seeking essential services.

Transportation barriers add another layer of complexity, forcing long-distance journeys just to access basic healthcare. Access to healthy food can be limited, with grocery stores few and far between, and fresh produce often prohibitively expensive. 

These factors contribute to higher rates of obesity, chronic diseases, and mental health issues, highlighting the need for targeted interventions and increased resource allocation to meet the unique needs of rural communities.

Vulnerable Beginnings: Children and Adolescents Facing an Unequal Start

The consequences of SDOH are tragically evident in the lives of children and adolescents. Growing up in environments characterized by poverty, food insecurity, exposure to violence, and inadequate education puts them at a significant disadvantage. 

These factors negatively impact their physical and mental health development, increasing the risk of chronic diseases, behavioral problems, and academic struggles. 

Early intervention and targeted programs are crucial to break the cycle of intergenerational poverty and ill health, providing vital support during these formative years and ensuring all children have the opportunity to reach their full potential.

Beyond Awareness: Building a More Equitable Future

Recognizing the unequal playing field created by SDOH is the first step towards a more just healthcare system. However, awareness alone is insufficient. 

Concrete action is needed, demanding a multi-pronged approach that tackles disparities at their root:

Policy Advocacy: 

Championing policies that address SDOH by promoting economic equity, ensuring access to quality healthcare and healthy food, and investing in community-based initiatives that empower underserved populations.

Community Engagement: 

Partnering with local organizations and community leaders to identify specific needs and develop culturally tailored interventions that address health challenges within specific populations.

Public Education: 

Raising awareness about the impact of SDOH and promoting individual and collective action to dismantle discriminatory practices and advocate for systemic change.

Learn How Qualify Health Can Help

Qualify Health works with healthcare systems across the country to help solve the health equity crisis. We are a prestigious organization that promotes health equity and reduces health disparities.

We do this via different means which include insurance payments for patients, transportation assistance, and philanthropic solutions to patient medical bills. These solutions help to improve people’s overall health and well-being regardless of their socioeconomic status.

For more information about our services, contact Qualify Health at (888)770-7191

Conclusion

By acknowledging the intersection of SDOH and specific populations, we can move beyond mere statistics and delve into the lived experiences of those facing immense challenges. This deeper understanding fuels our commitment to dismantling the invisible barriers

Given the high cost associated with most prescription drugs, it’s not surprising that many people choose not to fill a prescription or take it as directed in order to save money. A report from NCHS researchers discovered that about 8% of adult Americans do not adhere to their medications as prescribed because they cannot afford them. 

As prescription drug prices keep rising, drug manufacturers have designed ways to reduce the out-of-pocket costs for patients. One way they do this is with copay cards. These cards help insured patients afford expensive prescription drugs that physicians determine are the best treatment options, especially when their insurance doesn’t cover everything. 

Copay cards are not linked to financial need and can help reduce the total expenses for patients. Here’s everything you need to know about using copay cards to get your prescription drugs. 

What are Copay Cards?

Copay cards are a form of cost sharing.  Drug manufacturers use them to help patients offset the responsibility that is left over after insurance. These cards, also called discount cards, copay coupons, copay savings programs, or copay assistance programs, are provided by drug manufacturers directly to all commercially eligible patients. They usually apply to costly, brand-name medications that do not have a generic alternative.

When you present one of these cards at the pharmacy for your medications, your health insurance pays some of the cost.  With copay cards, the manufacturer will cover the rest. They can be especially beneficial for those requiring expensive specialty drugs to treat their condition.

How does Copay Cards work?

According to research by USC Schaeffer, 79 percent of brand-name drugs do not have a generic alternative available, which makes copay cards a valuable resource for patients requiring help affording these medications for treatment. If a patient has commercial insurance, they may have the opportunity to obtain certain brand-name medications for a minimal (or zero) fee using a copay card.

The copay cards carry billing details used by the pharmacy when filling the medication. The pharmacy will process the card’s billing along with the patient’s insurance to offer a discount or credit towards their out-of-pocket expenses.

However, your health insurance company and the manufacturer that cover part or all of the cost you’re responsible for, have a cap on the amount they pay towards out-of-pocket costs per fill (e.g., max $150 per fill).

Where do you use Copay Cards?

Copay cards, designed to be used along with your commercial insurance plan, are accepted at most pharmacies, including online, physical, or mail-order ones, as long as they offer billing services.

How does one get a Copay Card?

For a copay card available for your brand-name medication, there are several ways to get one.

1. You have the option to ask your pharmacist or healthcare provider regarding copay cards for your medications. 
2. You can access copay cards through the medication or manufacturer websites. It’s important to note that the website is usually the quickest and easiest way to acquire a copay card if you are not given one by your provider.
3. Your prescribing doctor may have access to copay cards if they often prescribe a specific type of medication. (e.g., a specialist in diabetes treatment may provide copay cards for particular diabetes medications).
4. You can ask your pharmacist about the availability of a manufacturer copay card for your medication.
5. You can visit the non-profit site to locate the drug manufacturer‘s contact info.

How do you use Copay Cards?

To use a copay card, here are the steps:

1. You can get a copay card from your provider, or pharmacist, or by signing up on the drug manufacturer’s website.
2. Show your copay card to your pharmacist promptly after your medication is prescribed. Copay cards work like insurance and are billed before your medication is filled. If you wait until you pick up your medication to present the card, the pharmacy will need to re-bill it, which can cause delays.
3. Your pharmacy will charge the medication to your commercial health insurance plan, which typically covers most of the medication’s cost. Afterward, the copay card will step in to cover some or all of your remaining copay.

What is the duration of validity for the card?

When you choose these copay card programs, the company issuing the card has specific parameters that determine its expiration. For many copay cards, there is an expiration date and a maximum savings limit. The specifics vary depending on the medication or companies, but generally, there is a monthly or annual maximum. 

Some copay cards also have limits on how many times you can use them. Also, there may be laws that limit the use of specific copay cards depending on your location. In 2017, California prohibited the use of coupons in purchasing brand-name medications that have generic alternatives.

What are the requirements to get this card?

For most of the copay cards, there are two main requirements:

1. You must have commercial or private insurance.

2. You cannot have government health insurance, such as Medicaid or Medicare.

This restriction is enforced by anti-kickback statutes, which prevent manufacturers from inducing the purchase of items that could potentially be reimbursed by the federal government.

Do Copay Cards exist for every kind of medicine?

It’s important to note that copay cards are not available for every type of medication on the market. Typically, you will most likely find copay assistance programs for medications that are costly and relatively new to the market. 

Also, you may encounter a copay card for a branded drug that has not been available for some time, especially if the patent for the drug recently expired and a generic or more cost-effective alternative is now accessible.

How do you redeem the Copay Card?

To redeem these cards, the patients must present them along with their prescriptions to the pharmacist. The pharmacist then enters the details into the system to process a claim.

Once all the necessary information is logged, the patients receive immediate coverage details, indicating their out-of-pocket expenses or co-pay. The details are shared with the benefit manager of the secondary insurance company, who then implements the discount. Finally, the pharmaceutical company covers the program cost, including any difference in the patient’s expenses.

Overall, copay cards help people save significant amounts of money when they require it most. Medical emergencies can unexpectedly arise at any stage of life, posing financial challenges.

How do patients and healthcare professionals benefit from Copay Assistance Programs?

Copay Assistance Programs lessen the patient’s financial burden, making it easier for them to obtain their prescription and ensure that the appropriate treatment is attainable.

Qualify Health specializes in the management of Copay Card programs. Our dedicated staff partners with clients ranging from small oncology practices to the country’s largest healthcare systems. Our Support Service team enrolls the patient into the Copay Card Program, monitors and submits EOBs with patient out-of-pocket expenses, and follows-up on any denials to ensure payment is received promptly. Ultimately, increasing patient satisfaction and reducing the financial burden on the provider’s office or facility by guaranteeing patient out-of-pocket expenses are obtained, which reduces bad debt and increases revenue.

Navigating the costs of cancer, in addition to the disease itself, may seem overwhelming. Whether it’s paid through out-of-pocket, insurance, or, most likely, a combination of the two, cancer treatments are usually expensive, even for people with government insurance like Medicare or Medicaid. 

As cancer survival rates rise, so do the price tags of life-saving treatments. According to research, forty percent of cancer patients surveyed had difficulties paying medical bills, while 12% lowered the dose of prescription drugs to make them last longer. 

This rising cost of cancer treatment is likely to create affordability challenges for many patients, particularly those who are underinsured.

High Cost of Cancer Treatment

The actual treatments are not even the only factor in cancer costs. Often, the costs for other parts of medical care account for a more significant proportion of overall treatment costs than those attributed to drugs. 

Many patients and their caregivers experience indirect costs related to loss of income, transportation, and childcare, among other expenses. Collectively, these costs can impose a huge burden, making lots of cancer patients accumulate considerable debts due to their treatments. Some may find themselves cutting back on necessities to cover the out-of-pocket costs associated with their care.

In 2019, the national patient economic burden associated with cancer care amounted to $21.09 billion, comprising out-of-pocket costs of $16.22 billion and patient time costs of $4.87 billion. 

The Impact of High Costs on Patients and Their Families

According to the American Cancer Society (ACS), each year in the US, about 1.8 million new cases of cancer are diagnosed. In 2018, cancer patients and their families foot the bill for an estimated $5.6 billion in out-of-pocket expenses for hospitalization, radiation therapy, surgery, chemotherapy drugs, and other treatments.

The Hutchinson Institute for Cancer Outcomes Research found that, because of high cancer care costs, cancer patients are almost three times more likely to declare bankruptcy. And those who go bankrupt are likelier to pass away than those who do not.

Unfortunately, even the best health insurance may not cover every medical expense a cancer patient may face. Considering this, patients may not get the treatment they need because the insurance won’t cover the cost of the drug or drugs that could lead to the best health outcomes. 

Importance of Philanthropic Funding in Covering High Cancer Treatment Costs

Cancer is expensive, and there are not many options for paying for treatment and other related costs by a patient. Although some cancer patients may get financial assistance and insurance from family members, but even with this help, cancer treatments may still be too costly for some patients.

Many advancements in cancer research are due to philanthropic efforts and fundraisers. Without Philanthropy, the healthcare industry would struggle significantly to get the proper funding or equipment to continue providing care and supporting life-saving research. 

Major Philanthropic Organizations Dedicated to Cancer Support

These are a few cancer organizations making significant impacts in the lives of those diagnosed with different types of cancers by focusing on research and funding to find a cure.

1. Lustgarten Pancreatic Cancer Foundation (LPCF)

This nonprofit group is one of the biggest private funders of pancreatic cancer research globally. Since it started, they have invested more than $250 million into research. Their area of interest focuses on research across three pillars: early detection, new drug development, and personalized medicine. 

2. Breastcancer.org

Breastcancer.org has assisted 193 million people around the world in 22 years, with its website surpassing 25 million visits in 2021. Over 230,000 registered users engage in the Breastcancer.org discussion boards covering 160,000 topics.

They share reliable educational content, cover the latest research news, and offer multimedia resources for breast cancer patients. The platform provides personalized recommendations based on each person’s diagnosis and treatment details, creating a community where everyone can join the conversation.

3. Pediatric Cancer Research Foundation (PCRS)

For over 40 years, this organization has awarded 225 grants for scientific research, funded 42 top institutions, and spent $57 million on pediatric cancer research. Some of their research’s results include curing advanced B-cell non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma in children, antigen receptor or CAR-T cell infusions, and diagnostic testing for Juvenile Myelomonocytic Leukemia.

The PCRS helps and supports researchers working daily to make the future better and more understandable.

4. Ovarian Cancer Research Alliance (OCRA)

This organization invested $110 million into ovarian cancer research, shared important information with 115,000 upcoming healthcare professionals, helped secure $3.7 billion for federal research and education, and supported 15,000 patients yearly through patient programs. 

They fund research for better prevention and treatments, speak up for patients, and help survivors through diagnosis, treatment, and more.

5. The National Pediatric Cancer Foundation

Through the Sunshine Project, the National Pediatric Cancer Foundation has started various clinical trials and tested many new combinations of drugs and therapies. Since 2005, they have funded over $37 million in clinical trials and translational studies. New compounds continue to be tested and hold great promise for children who have not experienced positive results under the standard treatment protocol.

6. Colorectal Cancer Alliance

This organization has raised more than $1.6 million to support lifesaving programs in cancer prevention, research, and patient and family support services. They also coordinated over 800 hours of volunteer help to make a difference for many people dealing with cancer. They provide new and creative treatment options, gathers experts to improve patient experiences and clinical outcomes, and supports new ideas.

How Do Cancer Philanthropic Organizations Make an Impact?

According to research by the American Association for Cancer Research, the national cancer-attributable costs in the US are projected to increase by over 30 percent from 2015 to 2030, corresponding to a total cost of over $245 billion. 

Now, a lot of cancer charities find creative ways to make it easier for patients to access resources or monetary assistance while they undergo treatment and try to become survivors. These nonprofits offer resources such as financial aid and raise money to fund vital research, oncology studies, laboratory equipment, and scientists. The more this research is equipped with adequate supplies, the better the chances of treatments that work.

How Does Qualify Health Help?

Qualify Health’s proprietary technology has an extensive database of the tens of thousands of charitable options available for patients. The ability to streamline the process of identifying assistance options with the combination of its advocates that complete all aspects of the financial assistance process for the patient removes an enormous burden from both hospital staff and/or the patient.

A Critical Look at Existing Programs and Proposals

The United States remains plagued by persistent health inequities, with racial and ethnic minorities disproportionately experiencing poorer health outcomes. Despite the Affordable Care Act’s (ACA) significant strides in expanding health insurance coverage, many gaps remain, highlighting the need for more comprehensive policy solutions. 

This blog post critically examines existing programs and proposals aimed at advancing health equity in the United States.

Existing Programs

Several programs currently exist at the federal and state levels to address health disparities:

1. Medicaid: 

This joint federal-state program provides health insurance coverage to low-income individuals and families. While it has expanded coverage significantly, millions remain uninsured, particularly in states that haven’t expanded Medicaid under the ACA.

2. The Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP): 

This program provides health insurance coverage to uninsured children from low-income families. It has been instrumental in improving access to care for children, but funding shortfalls and eligibility restrictions remain challenges.

3. Disparities Reduction Grants: 

These grants, administered by the Office of Minority Health, support community-based organizations in addressing health disparities among racial and ethnic minorities.

4. Health Center Program: 

This program provides funding to community health centers which offer primary care services to underserved communities. These centers have been vital in expanding access to care in underserved areas.

Policy Proposals

Several policy proposals have been put forward to further address health inequities:

Medicare for All: 

This proposal would create a single-payer healthcare system in the United States, ensuring universal health insurance coverage for all citizens. Proponents argue it would eliminate financial barriers to care and improve health outcomes for all. However, concerns exist over its cost and potential impact on existing healthcare providers.

Public Option: 

This proposal would create a government-run health insurance plan that would compete with private insurers. It aims to provide an affordable alternative for individuals who cannot afford private insurance and potentially lower healthcare costs overall.

Medicaid Expansion: 

Expanding Medicaid would provide health insurance coverage to millions of low-income individuals currently without it. This could significantly reduce health disparities, particularly for racial and ethnic minorities who are disproportionately represented among the uninsured.

Investment in Social Determinants of Health: 

This proposal advocates for increased funding for programs that address social determinants of health such as housing, education, and food security. Addressing these social factors is crucial for promoting long-term health and well-being.

Addressing Implicit Bias in Healthcare: 

This proposal aims to address implicit bias among healthcare providers, which can contribute to disparities in the quality of care received by different racial and ethnic groups. Implicit bias training and cultural competency programs are essential steps towards achieving equitable healthcare delivery.

A Critical Look

While existing programs and policy proposals offer promising solutions, challenges remain. Funding limitations, policy resistance, and administrative hurdles can impede the progress of these initiatives. Additionally, the effectiveness of these interventions needs to be continuously evaluated and monitored to ensure they are achieving their intended goals.

The Path Forward

Advancing health equity in the United States requires a combination of policy solutions, addressing systemic inequities, and investing in social determinants of health is crucial to ensure everyone has the opportunity to achieve optimal health and well-being.

It is vital for individuals, communities, and policymakers to engage in ongoing dialogue and action to promote health equity. Engaging with elected officials, advocating for policy changes, and supporting organizations working to address health disparities are all ways to contribute to a healthier and more equitable future for all.

Learn How Qualify Health Can Help

Qualify Health is an organization that prides itself in promoting health equity and impacting health disparities. By partnering with hospital systems, cancer treatment centers, specialty pharmacies, and physician offices, Qualify Health provides innovative patient financial advocacy solutions to minimize the financial burden on patients with chronic and life-changing illnesses. Patient Financial Advocacy solutions, like those provided through Qualify Health, are essential to improving all people’s overall health and well-being, regardless of socioeconomic status.

By implementing changes, we can create healthier communities and improve the quality of life for everyone.

For more information about Patient Financial Advocacy Solutions, contact Qualify Health at (888)770-7191.

Health equity is the state in which everyone has the right to attain their highest level of health. Both the government and health organizations must make crucial efforts to eliminate health disparities.

Good health should be available to all and sundry irrespective of their social or economic status, geographic location, age, environment, race, proficiency, etc. We all should work together to achieve and promote health equity. This we can do by developing policies and programs based on a health equity framework.

Why Health Equity Matters

Health equity recently became a national patient safety goal  (NPSG). The implication is that all health organizations must as a matter of necessity have a plan in place to help achieve and promote health equity.

Factors Affecting Health Equity

Health equity is influenced by many factors and they are known as determinants of health. These factors are categorized into five and they include genetics, behavior, environmental and physical influences medical care, and social factors. 

The social determinants of health are the economic and social conditions that impact and determine the health of people and communities.

They include income, education, food insecurity, working life conditions, unemployment, job insecurity, access to affordable health services, social inclusion, and non-discrimination. These social determinants of health( SDHs) play a huge role in influencing health. If they are properly addressed, health outcomes will improve and health inequalities and disparities will be greatly reduced.

Learn How Qualify Health Can Help

Qualify Health works with healthcare systems across the country to help solve the health equity crisis. We are a prestigious organization that promotes health equity and reduces health disparities.

We do this via different means which include insurance payments for patients, transportation assistance, and philanthropic solutions to patient medical bills. These solutions help to improve people’s overall health and well-being regardless of their socioeconomic status.

For more information about our services, contact Qualify Health at (888)770-7191.

Many of us are used to hearing about maintenance medications – that is, medications that people take regularly to manage conditions like high blood pressure and high cholesterol. There are also common medications we are used to being prescribed when we are sick, such as antibiotics like amoxicillin or steroids like prednisone. We can just get these through our standard local pharmacy since they are common and typically readily available. 

However, you may be less familiar with the concept of specialty drugs, and, in turn, the specialty pharmacies that stock them. Specialty drugs are most commonly used to treat cancer and chronic diseases like rheumatoid arthritis, multiple sclerosis, ulcerative colitis, Crohn’s disease, and more. They may also be used during fertility treatment or in the field of endocrinology. By definition, they are drugs that require special handling, treat rare diseases, require ongoing clinical assessment or monitoring of side effects, and/or have a limited distribution and can only be filled at certain pharmacies. 

Specialty pharmacies are becoming more of a necessity given the growing number of specialty medications. At GBMC, we are extremely fortunate to have a specialty pharmacy available onsite. Having our specialty pharmacy onsite allows us to take care of the patient comprehensively under one roof. The patient can get their medication while still on our campus. Many patients who need specialty medications are immunocompromised, and having one less place to travel helps to limit exposures that may lead to contracting viral/bacterial infections. By having our specialty pharmacy on campus, we are ensuring that our own providers and staff are caring for the patient from the time they arrive to the time they are discharged, using the same electronic health record. This allows for improved care coordination and better collaboration between all care team members. 

One of the challenges associated with specialty drugs is their cost. This can be a barrier to patients. I’m proud that our specialty pharmacy team has worked with Qualify Health to implement a financial advocacy process that identifies and helps patients with out-of-pocket expenses. These patients are connected to resources that range from copay cards and patient assistance programs to funding from various disease foundations and rebates from drug manufacturers.  

Thank you to Yuliya Klopouh, PharmD, Executive Director of Pharmacy Services, and her team for bringing this wonderful offering to fruition. Their efforts to make specialty medications more accessible to patients with same-day delivery, onsite delivery to appointments, and connection to financial resources is leading to better care experiences and is truly the type of care I would want for my own loved ones. I am excited to see this important work continue, especially as we expand our specialty pharmacy services into our new GBMC retail pharmacy that will open in the new Louis and Phyllis Friedman Building as part of the Promise Project. 

Baltimore’s Best Hospital; One of America’s Greatest Workplaces 

We are honored that GBMC was recently named Baltimore’s Best Hospital by readers of The Baltimore Sun. This recognition is a testament to the dedication of the entire GBMC family who strives every day to provide the care we would want for our own loved ones. We take great pride in caring for our community, and I’m thankful to all who entrust us with their care. 

We are also thrilled to have been recognized as one of America’s Greatest Workplaces 2023 by Newsweek and data firm Plant-A Insights Group! We are proud of our workforce and strive to maintain a positive, welcoming, and inclusive work environment and are humbled to make this list.