New Healthcare Delivery Methods for Americans

Every American needs healthcare in a different way. Yet for too long, there were only a few ways patients could access care. For minor or routine issues, patients went to their primary care physician. For more acute or specialized care, they saw specialists in the hospital. 

Today, Americans have more healthcare delivery options than before. Elderly and disabled patients in particular benefit from home visits from nurses. Patients of all demographics find the urgent care center more accessible than an emergency room for most sudden health issues. Professionals and younger generations benefit from modern technology’s ability to connect them to a doctor via telemedicine. And finally, patients looking to escape the traditional system entirely have found solace in the concierge healthcare model.

The homecare industry is a boon to patients, but agencies are struggling to find and keep workers. Recently, the caregiver turnover rate has been 64%, far higher than the rest of the labor market. Without caregivers, patients and clients are also turning over at alarming rates. Agencies are experimenting with benefits to see what keeps workers.

Meanwhile, urgent care centers have the staff and resources to grow rapidly. In the past year, the urgent care market has grown by 16.4% in America. Urgent care centers are treating a growing percentage of accidents and sports injuries. In addition, they’re helping more Americans manage chronic disease conditions.

The telemedicine market exploded during the pandemic lockdowns of 2020. Today, it remains a popular option, particularly among Millennials. Most Americans are willing to have video visits with a doctor. The main drivers towards telemedicine are convenience and accessibility. 

Finally, concierge care involves an alternative pay structure to traditional care in the form of a retainer fee. For those able to pay, one can receive same day appointments with no wait time.