Dr. Katz makes an appointment for one of his trauma patients. Why does she not keep this appointment?

Question

What are six things the US health care system assumes about its patients?
How did Dr. Katz treat his patient differently after learning that he was illiterate?
Why are diabetics particularly affected when they don’t have enough food?
Why can many middle-class people handle medical problems more easily than people who earn lower incomes?
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?
What does Dr. Katz believe will offer the biggest benefit to low-income patients?
How would this help benefit low-income patients?
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

Answer 1

1. Why does she not keep this appointment? Dr. Katz's trauma patient may not have kept her appointment due to a variety of potential reasons. Common factors include transportation issues, work or childcare obligations, mental health challenges, fear or anxiety about receiving care, or simply forgetting the appointment. Additionally, patients may struggle with financial constraints that make attending appointments difficult, such as the cost of travel or taking time off work.

2. What are six things the US health care system assumes about its patients?

   • Patients are literate and can understand medical information and instructions.
   • Patients have reliable access to transportation to reach medical facilities.
   • Patients have health insurance or the financial means to afford care.
   • Patients will proactively seek care when needed and adhere to recommended treatments.
   • Patients have a support system that can assist them with care decisions and logistics.
   • Patients are able to navigate the complexities of the healthcare system, including making appointments and following up on referrals.

3. How did Dr. Katz treat his patient differently after learning that he was illiterate? After discovering his patient was illiterate, Dr. Katz adapted his communication style to ensure that the patient understood his diagnosis and treatment plan. This might have included using simpler language, providing visual aids, and checking in with the patient to confirm his understanding of the information given.

4. Why are diabetics particularly affected when they don’t have enough food? Diabetics need regular meals to help manage their blood sugar levels. Inadequate food can lead to fluctuations in blood glucose, resulting in hyperglycemia or hypoglycemia, both of which can have serious health consequences. Lack of access to consistent, nutritious food makes it difficult for diabetics to maintain their dietary regimens and manage their condition effectively.

5. 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 resources such as health insurance, savings for copays or emergencies, and social support systems that can assist with navigating the healthcare system. They are also more likely to have stable jobs that provide health benefits, whereas lower-income individuals may face challenges such as part-time work without benefits, time constraints, and limited access to healthcare services.

6. 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?

   • Establish more accessible healthcare clinics that cater to homeless populations.
   • Develop food distribution programs, such as food banks or meal delivery services.
   • Provide mobile health units to reach those without stable housing.
   • Increase access to mental health services and substance use treatment.
   • Collaborate with community organizations to provide supportive services, including job training and housing assistance.
   • Advocate for policy changes that focus on affordable housing and food security.

7. What does Dr. Katz believe will offer the biggest benefit to low-income patients? Dr. Katz believes that addressing social determinants of health, such as food security, stable housing, and access to education and health care, will offer the biggest benefit to low-income patients.

8. How would this help benefit low-income patients? By addressing these social determinants, low-income patients would be more likely to have their basic needs met, which in turn can lead to better health outcomes. Improved access to healthy food, stable housing, and comprehensive healthcare services can reduce health disparities and increase the ability of these patients to manage chronic conditions effectively.

9. As a future health science professional, how would you reform the healthcare system in the United States to best meet the needs of all? Reforming the healthcare system could include:

   • Expanding coverage to include universal healthcare, ensuring that all individuals have access to necessary medical services without financial hardship.
   • Implementing a more integrated care model that addresses both medical and social needs, including mental health and substance abuse treatment.
   • Increasing funding for preventive care and public health initiatives to address health disparities before they escalate into more severe health issues.
   • Enhancing health literacy programs to empower patients to understand and navigate the healthcare system.
   • Promoting community-based health programs that involve local stakeholders in identifying and addressing specific health needs.
   • Advocating for policies that tackle the root causes of poverty, housing insecurity, and access to nutritious food, as these greatly impact health outcomes.

Through these reforms, the goal would be to create a more equitable and sustainable healthcare system that caters to the diverse needs of all populations.