Health Reform An Integral Part Of Economic Recovery

Health reform constitutes our most important domestic priority and is an integral part of economic recovery. Since 2000, health insurance premiums have almost doubled, growing three times faster than wages. This means foregone opportunities for chronic disease management and prevention. As the American economy continues to transform, it is expected that fewer and fewer employers will offer coverage. From 2003 to 2007, the number of â€Å"under-insured† families – those who pay for coverage but are unprotected against high costs – rose by 60 percent. We have by far the most expensive health system in the world. We spend 50 percent more per person than the average developed country -- spending more on health care than housing or food.†¦show more content†¦A 21st century strategy for health reform in the United States must harness the commitment of all Americans and the power and resources of all sectors of society. It must involve both social and pe rsonal responsibility to achieve a healthier United States. All Americans should be able to live in communities in which they can achieve the best of health and well-being, receive high quality, effective, and compassionate care when it is needed, and be protected from economic hardship due to medical expenses. Now is the time for individuals, families, schools, businesses, health care providers, scientists, foundations, and the government to work together to move our nation and world towards a healthier, more secure and prosperous future (Blumenthal Cortese, 2011). For that reason, the following initiatives should go into the planning and designing of our 21st century healthcare systems. First, ensuring public health agencies are able to receive and share information with healthcare professionals by using certified electronic health record (EHR) technology. EHRs can improve public and population health outcomes. By efficiently collecting data in a form that can be shared acro ss multiple health care organizations and leveraged for quality improvement and prevention activities. By making it easier for organizations to collect standardized, systematic data will improve reporting capabilities. With more and better data