Comp 2 Reflection

docx

School

University of Phoenix *

*We aren’t endorsed by this school

Course

560

Subject

Computer Science

Date

Jan 9, 2024

Type

docx

Pages

4

Uploaded by CorporalOstrichMaster323

Report
Comp 2 – Reflection Creating a Sustainable Legacy: Healthy Communities Abdul Sameer Shaik University of Phoenix MHACB/560: Creating A Sustainable Legacy: Healthy Communities 11/27/2023 James Jones
Sustainability and Processes of Care Health care professionals are constantly challenged to improve patient outcomes. How can sustainable practices be implemented when the processes of care become more complicated with the introduction of new drugs, technologies, and regulations? Estimates of the number of Americans dying each year because of medical errors are as high as 98,000 (more than those who die from motor vehicle accidents, breast cancer, or AIDS, per Institute of Medicine, 2000). The American public is dissatisfied with chronic care. 72 percent of those surveyed believe it is difficult for people living with chronic conditions to obtain the necessary care from their health care providers (Harris Interactive and ARiA Marketing, 2000). Health professionals are also concerned. 57 percent of U.S. physicians surveyed said their ability to provide quality care has been reduced in the last 5 years, and 41 percent stated that they are discouraged from reporting or not encouraged to report medical errors (Blendon et al., 2001). 76 percent of nurses surveyed indicated that unsafe working conditions interfere with their ability to deliver quality care. Health professionals have all identified reasons for this disconnect like poor design of systems and processes, the system’s inability to respond to changing patient demographics and related requirements, a failure to assimilate the rapidly growing and increasingly complex science and technology base, slow adoption of information technology innovations needed to provide care, little accommodation of patients’ diverse demands and needs, and personnel shortages and poor working conditions. At least 70% of US healthcare providers still exchange medical information using a fax machine, according to Bloomberg Law. EHRs often can’t share data across systems. Even within systems, data is often siloed. Sometimes, vital patient data never makes it into the EHR, or isn’t fully integrated with clinical decision support tools. Clinical decision support requires greater interoperability to be successful. Sustainability can still be implemented if the EHR is upgraded by enhancing software applications that allows for the patient data to flow across healthcare systems seamlessly and thereby not having to rely on fax machines that use lot of paper. Sustainability Regulation If a community rejects non-legislative efforts to adopt sustainable practices, should it be forced upon them through laws or regulation? Defend your response . Sustainable healthcare is an approach to healthcare that prioritizes environmental sustainability alongside health outcomes. Healthcare operations and practices contribute significantly to environmental degradation and climate change. Hospitals and healthcare
facilities are known to be high energy consumers, with significant carbon emissions from energy use, waste disposal, and transportation. Adopting energy-efficient practices, using renewable energy sources, and reducing waste can all help reduce the carbon footprint of healthcare facilities. This can lower greenhouse gas emissions, mitigate the effects of climate change, and improve air and water quality. Sustainable healthcare can also improve the quality of healthcare services by providing patients with a healthier and safer environment. For instance, green buildings designed with natural lighting, ventilation, and soundproofing can promote positive therapeutic environments for patients. Similarly, reducing the use of toxic chemicals and hazardous materials can prevent patient exposure and improve healthcare quality. Sustainable healthcare initiatives often translate into direct and indirect cost savings. By incorporating energy-efficient technologies, practices, and building designs, hospitals and healthcare providers can reduce energy consumption and waste generation, leading to significant financial savings. Sustainable waste management practices can also reduce disposal costs and improve long-term sustainability. Better financial health of the organizations may also contribute to the prevention of healthcare workers losing their jobs and offer job security. Despite the numerous benefits of sustainable healthcare practices in the medical industry, implementing such practices can be challenging. One of the primary challenges is the cost and technological barriers. Adopting green practices requires significant investments in new technologies and equipment, which can be financially burdensome for healthcare providers. Additionally, cultural and political obstacles can hinder the adoption of sustainable healthcare practices. Some healthcare providers may be resistant to change, while others may face regulatory barriers that prevent them from implementing green practices. The healthcare industry operates within a complex and highly regulated environment. Compliance with regulations and standards can sometimes impede the implementation of sustainable practices. Healthcare providers must navigate through various regulatory requirements that may not align with sustainability goals or provide specific guidelines on sustainable healthcare practices. Overcoming regulatory challenges requires collaboration between healthcare professionals, policymakers, and regulatory bodies to establish clear standards and incentives for sustainable healthcare practices.
Your preview ends here
Eager to read complete document? Join bartleby learn and gain access to the full version
  • Access to all documents
  • Unlimited textbook solutions
  • 24/7 expert homework help
References Six challenges to delivering quality healthcare https://www.wolterskluwer.com/en/expert-insights/six-challenges-to-delivering-quality- healthcare Sustainable Healthcare: Green Practices in the Medical Industry https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/sustainable-healthcare-green-practices-medical- industry-al-surf/ Ten challenges in improving quality in healthcare: lessons from the Health Foundation's programme evaluations and relevant literature https://qualitysafety.bmj.com/content/21/10/876