Health care delivery and the organizations that provide it, manage it, and reimburse for it are growing at an explosive rate. As part of this trend, the growth in the allied health job sector is expected to grow significantly, with job growth projections in the 40% plus range for the period 2012-2022 (according to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2012).
Expansive growth is a response to current and predicted need for services, and while encouraging, sustained, and rapid growth will inevitably impact safety, risk management, and quality provision on scales not yet seen by health care organizations.
In an essay of 1220-1500 words, provide your assessment, with recommendations, of how the United States, as a country, can best manage quality assurance in the health care workplace going into the future. Questions to consider include:
1. How best can the US, as a country, manage this growth in the allied health sector? Provide examples.
2. What steps might the US take, from the global down to organizational level, to maintain high standards to provide outstanding care-based services?
3. What steps might the US take, from the global down to organizational level, to provide exceptional employment opportunities to in-demand allied health fields?
The AHRQ National Quality Measures Clearinghouse (www.qualitymeasures.ahrq.gov), and the National Quality Forum (www.qualityforum.org) can provide with excellent data to develop and support your analysis.
A minimum of 4 qualified resources is required and they must not be over 5 years old.
Expert Solution Preview
Introduction: The healthcare industry is experiencing massive growth, particularly in the allied health job sector. There is a need to ensure quality assurance and maintain high standards to provide outstanding care-based services. Additionally, it is crucial to provide exceptional employment opportunities to in-demand allied health fields. This essay will explore how the United States can best manage quality assurance in the health care workplace going into the future.
1. How best can the US, as a country, manage this growth in the allied health sector? Provide examples.
To manage the growth in the allied health sector, the United States needs to implement strategies that will ensure quality assurance and maintain high standards. One example is to develop and enforce comprehensive regulations to govern healthcare organizations and their practices. Such regulations would help ensure that healthcare facilities provide safe, quality care by enforcing standards on all processes, including credentialing, accreditation, and certification.
Another strategy is to invest in education and training programs for healthcare professionals. This will help to address the increasing demand for allied health professionals and ensure that these professionals are well-trained and equipped to provide high-quality services. A well-trained workforce will also improve the safety and quality of care provided to patients.
2. What steps might the US take, from the global down to organizational level, to maintain high standards to provide outstanding care-based services?
To maintain high standards to provide outstanding care-based services, the US needs to invest in technologies that will help healthcare providers monitor and manage quality. One example is the adoption of electronic health records (EHRs), which can improve care coordination, reduce errors, and improve patient outcomes. The use of EHRs can also help healthcare providers identify areas where they need to improve and make necessary changes.
Another strategy is to promote collaboration and cooperation among healthcare providers. This can be achieved by developing healthcare networks that encourage providers to share information and best practices. Such networks can help improve the quality of care, reduce costs, and enhance patient outcomes.
3. What steps might the US take, from the global down to organizational level, to provide exceptional employment opportunities to in-demand allied health fields?
To provide exceptional employment opportunities to in-demand allied health fields, the US could provide incentives for healthcare organizations to recruit and retain healthcare professionals. One example is to offer loan repayment programs to new allied health professionals who work in underserved areas. Such incentives would encourage healthcare professionals to work in areas where there is a shortage of healthcare professionals.
Another strategy is to promote continuing education for existing healthcare professionals. This can be achieved by offering professional development programs, training, and education opportunities. Continuous education will help healthcare professionals develop new skills and knowledge, which will expand their career opportunities.
In conclusion, managing quality assurance in the healthcare industry is crucial to ensure safety, risk management, and quality provision. The United States can achieve this by implementing comprehensive regulations and investing in education and training programs for healthcare professionals. Additionally, promoting collaboration and cooperation among healthcare providers and offering incentives for healthcare organizations to recruit and retain healthcare professionals would provide exceptional employment opportunities.
