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Rural-urban divide follows patients to end-of-life care, study says
When we talk about rural health disparities, we often focus on getting people into the health care system: finding a doctor, reaching a hospital, getting cancer treatment or managing a chronic disease. But a recent study published in JAMA reminds journalists to consider disparities in end-of-life care, too. The study examined more than 21 million…
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What to know about palliative and hospice care
Despite what many people think, palliative care is distinct from hospice care — it’s not just for end-of-life. Misinformation and lack of education persist among those needing these services, and even among some health care providers. Also known as comfort care, palliative care can be an effective approach when provided in conjunction with curative care…
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Why many Medicare beneficiaries are not getting prescribed home health care
One in five Medicare beneficiaries need home health care following hospitalization. However, a recent analysis based on Medicare claims data found recommended post-discharge care declined significantly over six years. Fulfillment rates for home health referrals dropped from 66% to 59% between 2016 and 2022, according to The Commonwealth Fund analysis. Unfulfilled home health referrals are…
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