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Health care's double standard: the prevention dilemma
O I Mikhail1, J M Swint, P R Casperson
1University of Texas Health Science Center, School of Public Health, Houston, USA.
Journal of Public Health Management and Practice : JPHMP
|April 7, 1997
Summary
Preventive services face scrutiny due to limited evidence, unlike curative services. Understanding how different groups perceive prevention
Area of Science:
- Public Health
- Health Economics
- Healthcare Policy
Background:
- Curative services are typically valued based on perceived worth.
- Preventive services face a higher documentation standard, often lacking robust evidence.
- The challenge for preventive services stems from a scarcity of comprehensive data, not proven cost-ineffectiveness.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore the perceived value of various preventive services.
- To identify the criteria and stakeholders involved in valuing prevention.
- To analyze the implications for funding preventive healthcare initiatives.
Main Methods:
- Examination of five key stakeholder groups.
- Analysis of the metrics used to evaluate the value of preventive interventions.
- Assessment of the impact on funding decisions for prevention.
Main Results:
- Differential valuation exists between curative and preventive services.
- Perceptions of value for preventive services are influenced by specific criteria and determined by various constituencies.
- The lack of comprehensive evidence significantly impacts the perceived value and funding of preventive services.
Conclusions:
- The perceived value and subsequent funding of preventive services are critically dependent on evidence and stakeholder perception.
- Addressing the evidence gap is crucial for enhancing the recognized value and financial support of preventive healthcare.
- A multi-faceted approach considering diverse stakeholder perspectives is necessary for effective prevention policy.