Choose a common myth associated with managed care. You may use one of the myths discussed in this week’s reading assignment, or come up with one on your own. Write a 2 page analysis on why you think this myth came about and why it still may be prevalent today. Explain to what degree the myth is based on facts, truths, and misunderstandings.
Summarize the evidence from research that counters or supports the premise of your myth. Conduct research in at least two sources, not including your textbook. Cite your sources using APA style guidelines.
Submit your completed assignment to the drop box below. Please check the Course Calendar for specific due dates.
Expert Solution Preview
Introduction:
Managed care is a system that provides cost-effective healthcare services. However, many myths are associated with managed care that affects the public perception of the system. In this assignment, I will analyze one of the common myths associated with managed care and explain why the myth came about and still prevalent. Additionally, I will provide evidence from research that supports or counters the myth.
Myth:
One of the most common myths about managed care is that it restricts patients’ access to healthcare providers. Many people believe that managed care plans won’t allow patients to see specialists or healthcare providers outside their network. As a result, patients are hesitant to enroll in managed care plans.
Analysis:
The myth about managed care restricting patients’ access to healthcare providers originated from the competitive nature of the healthcare system. Initially, healthcare providers and insurers competed for patients’ attention. They marketed their services widely, and patients had a wide range of choices. However, managed care plans brought in restrictions to control healthcare costs. Patients had to choose from a smaller pool of providers within the network. Consequently, the myth about limited access to healthcare providers because of managed care started to circulate.
While the myth about limited access to healthcare providers is based to some extent on facts, it’s also founded on misunderstandings. Patients have the liberty to choose a healthcare provider outside the network, but they may incur higher costs. Managed care providers use a variety of methods to control healthcare costs while ensuring that patients receive quality care. Additionally, managed care providers offer incentives to encourage patients to use their network providers.
Research Evidence:
Many studies have found that managed care plans do not restrict patients’ access to healthcare providers. A study conducted by the Kaiser Family Foundation found that 90% of patients enrolled in managed care plans can get the medical care they require quickly. Another research by the National Committee for Quality Assurance found that managed care plans perform better than traditional fee-for-service plans in terms of providing preventive care and chronic disease management services.
Conclusion:
The myth about managed care restricting patients’ access to healthcare providers is not completely true. Managed care providers ensure that patients can access quality care while also controlling healthcare costs. Research evidence also shows that the myth is not accurate. Patients should not be afraid to enroll in managed care plans as they can still choose a healthcare provider outside the network, but they should be aware that they may incur additional costs. Overall, healthcare providers should strive to educate the public about managed care to counter common misconceptions.
