Boston, Massachusetts – As adults age, the need for medical care often increases, presenting challenges for seniors and their caregivers. A recent study conducted by researchers at Brigham and Women’s Hospital in Boston highlighted the significant time, effort, and cost required for older adults to receive in-person medical care and treatment.
The study, led by Ishani Ganguli, an associate professor of medicine at Harvard Medical School, analyzed data from 6,619 adults aged 65 and older who participated in the 2019 Medicare Current Beneficiary Survey. The findings showed that older adults spent an average of 17.3 days on ambulatory care activities, such as visits to primary care or specialty doctors, tests, imaging procedures, or treatments. Additionally, an average of 20.7 total contact days, which included time spent in hospitals, emergency departments, skilled-nursing facilities, or hospice facilities, were reported.
The complexity of coordinating multiple medical touchpoints, following different guidelines for various medical conditions, navigating financial incentives, and accessing specialized care can be overwhelming for older patients. Many older adults have multiple specialists managing their health, leading to frequent appointments and tests.
Dr. Marc Siegel, a clinical professor of medicine at NYU Langone Medical Center, emphasized the challenges of medical complexity faced by seniors in the United States. He noted the strain on the healthcare system, shortage of healthcare providers, and the increasing healthcare needs of the elderly, especially with advancements in chronic illness management.
Dr. Shana Johnson, a physical medicine and rehabilitation physician in Scottsdale, Arizona, highlighted the ever-increasing hurdle of navigating the complex U.S. healthcare system. She emphasized the difficulties in scheduling appointments, affording prescriptions, and understanding necessary medical tests.
To address the burdens of healthcare, experts recommend open communication with healthcare providers about treatment plans, prioritizing health goals, and discussing necessary medical interventions. Additionally, social workers or patient navigators can help older adults coordinate appointments and manage medical care effectively.
Ultimately, the increasing complexity of the healthcare system poses challenges for older adults, underscoring the importance of patient education, communication with healthcare providers, and access to support services to navigate the healthcare landscape effectively.