Episode 12- Comparing Current Healthcare Spending to Patient Outcomes

During this discussion about healthcare spending, the panelists debate whether or not current spending is proportional to the current improvements in patient outcomes.

David Calabrese, RPh, MHP, is not convinced that spending and patient outcomes are proportional, and explains that although there have been modest improvements, he feels that from a managed care standpoint factors such as the aging population are of concern.

Agreeing with Mr Calabrese, Kenneth L. Schaecher, MD, FACP, CPC, states that the debate remains that patients are getting the same value of care in relation to the dollars being spent. Dr Schaecher explains that a healthcare misalignment exists because the price of drugs keeps rising. Dr Schaecher continues by saying that pharmaceutical companies are doing their job and are bringing drugs to the market to treat conditions; however, the prices are rising because of the financial demands of their investors.

Yehuda Handelsman, MD, FACP, FACE, FNLA, concludes that issues remain, and feels that a 2-tier system may become necessary in this country to help preserve medical care.