Preventive Medicine: A Ready Solution for a Health Care System in Crisis

摘要

Over a half century, some improvements have been realized from the efforts of health plans, disease management companies, and public sector agencies. Unfortunately, health care in the United States continues to fall short of expectations. Explanations for this failing range from health system issues to consumer behavior issues. It is clear that the United States is in the midst of a health care crisis dominated by a chronically ill, aging population and the spiraling costs of treatment. It is equally clear that more accessible, personalized prevention is a promising and value-based solution. The historic enactment of health care reform legislation earlier this year recognizes the vital role of preventive medicine and opens new opportunities for improvement in our national health status.rnTPP is a personal health model that incorporates a range of technologies to identify risk factors, screen for and monitor chronic conditions, and - most importantly - to keep healthy people healthy. Knowledge and minimization of personal risk factors, early diagnosis, and appropriate treatment are essential to achieve optimal outcomes. The goal is to facilitate a transition from a culture of "sick care" to a "culture of prevention."rnAlthough one approach is highlighted in this supplement, there are other possible routes to improve the health of our nation. The overarching message is that, by building on the pillars of primary, secondary, and tertiary prevention, we arerncontinuing to make progress toward a meaningful solution to the health care crisis in the United States.