Certainly! Here are answers to each of your questions based on common knowledge about healthcare and socioeconomic factors.
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Why does she not keep this appointment?
- Patients often miss appointments due to various barriers such as lack of transportation, financial constraints, misunderstanding of the healthcare system, fear, or psychological stressors related to their trauma.
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What are six things the US health care system assumes about its patients?
- Patients have access to transportation.
- Patients understand medical terminology and can navigate health insurance.
- Patients can afford medical care and medications.
- Patients are able to take time off work for medical appointments.
- Patients have a stable living environment.
- Patients will automatically follow prescribed treatment plans without assistance.
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How did Dr. Katz treat his patient differently after learning that he was illiterate?
- Dr. Katz likely adjusted his communication style, opting for simpler language and providing written instructions in a more accessible format. He may also have offered to explain information verbally or used visual aids to ensure understanding.
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Why are diabetics particularly affected when they don’t have enough food?
- Diabetics need a stable intake of food to maintain proper blood sugar levels. Insufficient food can lead to hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) or hyperglycemia (high blood sugar), both of which can have serious health consequences.
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Why can many middle-class people handle medical problems more easily than people who earn lower incomes?
- Middle-class individuals often have better access to health insurance, financial resources to cover out-of-pocket costs, a support network, and the ability to take time off work. They also typically have more opportunities for preventative care and health education.
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What are some ways to help take care of the needs of the homeless and those who do not have a steady supply of food?
- Establishing and expanding food banks and soup kitchens.
- Providing mobile healthcare services that travel to underserved areas.
- Creating affordable housing initiatives and shelters.
- Implementing programs that connect individuals to resources like job training and health education.
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What does Dr. Katz believe will offer the biggest benefit to low-income patients?
- Dr. Katz believes that improving access to social resources and support, such as food security and stable housing, will yield significant health benefits for low-income patients.
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How would this help benefit low-income patients?
- Addressing social determinants of health can reduce health disparities by enabling patients to focus on managing their conditions rather than struggling with basic needs, leading to overall improved health outcomes and reduced healthcare costs.
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As a future health science professional, how would you reform the health care system in the United States to best meet the needs of all patients? Describe at least two ideas.
- Implementation of a Universal Basic Health Plan: This would ensure all individuals have access to basic health care services without financial hardship, reducing disparities in access and improving overall public health.
- Integrating Social Services with Health Care: Creating collaborative models where healthcare providers work alongside social workers to address not only medical needs but also issues such as housing, nutrition, and education to provide holistic care to patients, particularly those in lower-income brackets.
These answers reflect common issues addressed within healthcare discussions and demonstrate an understanding of the challenges faced by patients in the US health care system.
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