Two-thirds of Americans over the age of 65 have multiple chronic diseases. Without coordinated care, treatment prescribed for one condition can often be the source of negative symptoms in another. A new report, “Multiple Chronic Conditions: A Strategic Framework,” was recently created as a model to encourage changes in the American health care system in order to reduce costs, improve patient quality of life, and strive for better health outcomes. Dr. Anand K. Parekh, an assistant secretary of health in charge of the report, believes that “with an aging population, the persistence of risk factors for disease and the marvels of modern medicine, more people are living with multiple chronic conditions. New care models are needed to provide coordinated care.” One solution lies in having a single doctor who can oversee and coordinate all of the patient’s conditions and treatment plans, and to serve as “the quarterback of care” for patients with multiple chronic conditions.
For full New York Times article:
http://www.nytimes.com/2011/02/22/health/22brody.html?_r=1&ref=health