ROTARY’S DECEMBER FOCUS ON DISEASE PREVENTION AND TREATMENT
June 26, 2020 - The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that 90 percent of national healthcare spending goes toward chronic disease management and mental healthcare, which means that strong mental health and chronic disease prevention strategies can help reduce payer spending. The CDC has named the eight most expensive chronic diseases in the US. The good news for payers is that most of these can be prevented to some degree. By being aware of preventive care strategies for these eight chronic conditions, payers can actively reduce their healthcare spending and support positive patient outcomes. Heart Disease and Stroke in the U.S. According to the CDC, heart disease and stroke remain the most expensive chronic diseases for the healthcare system. It causes a third of all deaths in America on a yearly basis and costs the healthcare system $199 billion. Eating healthy can play a big role in preventing heart disease and stroke, according to the American Heart Association. To reduce the risk of heart disease and stroke, payers can design benefits that incentivize members to eat a diet that is low in saturated fat, trans fat, and sodium and high in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, among other foods. However, not everyone has access to these options. For those with social determinants of health barriers, Humana has seen success in combining social and clinical approaches in order to support members through chronic disease management for heart diseases including coronary artery disease and congestive heart failure. Click here to read more. Heart Disease and Stroke in Canada An estimated 1.6 million Canadians have heart disease or are living with the effects of a stroke, according to the Public Health Agency of Canada. Among seniors, 14.8% of those ages 65 to 74 years report having heart disease, with the proportion climbing to 22.9% over age 75.
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