Without a doubt, Canada has a robust healthcare system as expected of a developed nation. According to internal reports, 70% of the population’s healthcare needs are ably provided. Meanwhile, 30% of the same needs are catered for through the private sector. Even with impressive gains made in the sector, things continue to evolve, and many lessons have been learned. Here are some key trends changing the face of Canada’s healthcare system.
1. Point-of-care diagnostics
The convenience of point-of-care diagnostics has significantly changed health care delivery. With the help of technology, point-of-care diagnostics simplify some types of medical testing. And people no longer have to wait for hours or a couple of days to receive medical test results. For example, the glucometer takes the laboratory stage out of the blood sugar testing process. Additionally, pregnancy test kits make it possible for women to check for HCG hormone in their urine samples. Another example is the oximeter which checks for oxygenation concentration in the body.
All this drives consumer empowerment and takes pressure away from hospitals. At least to some extent. People who would have trooped to hospital settings can now test from home. Others may prefer to have these checks performed at the local pharmacy. The instantaneous results provide relief to anxious individuals awaiting health status results. Having these personal medical devices also help lower healthcare costs.
2. Online pharmacy
Online pharmacy has become a formidable trend in Canada’s healthcare system. First of all, unless you’re ordering over-the-counter medications, an online pharmacy would require a valid prescription. Secondly, the online pharmacy is legitimate if it has a license from the regulatory authority. After satisfying these and other requirements, an online pharmacy can operate in Canada. This system creates convenience and eliminates the discomfort of long queues at the pharmacy. Thankfully, many people who order medications from a pharmacy online know what to look out for.
3. Hospital at home
Canada’s hospital at home program is a commendable addition to the healthcare system. Over the years, the talks about freeing up hospitals finally yielded results. The program has allowed healthcare facilities to continue providing excellent patient care in the latter’s home. This program uses the same adaptive care model in the UK, US, and Australia. Furthermore, the structures ensure that quality healthcare delivery remains unaffected.
The hospital at home model follows a strict set of requirements and eligibility. In other words, if a patient or their home fails to meet certain prerequisites, it cannot be permitted. For example, if a patient’s medical condition is not stable, the hospital at home option cannot be granted. This key trend has helped cut down the cost of hospital admissions. Additionally, it has significantly reduced the prevalence rate of hospital-acquired infections. More importantly, it enhances patient comfort as they ease into familiar home settings. Already, many Canadians are reported to be benefitting from the hospital at home project.
Many more innovations are trending in the healthcare industry. Thankfully, most are client and patient-focused. Also, they do not compromise quality and safety. Undoubtedly, in the years to come, the country will see more key trends in the sector.
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