A government department responsible for enhancing and protecting the well-being of all Americans. HHS oversees various health-related programs and services aimed at improving public health, providing social services, and ensuring access to healthcare.
A federal health insurance program primarily for people aged 65 and older, as well as certain younger individuals with disabilities. Medicare helps cover hospital stays, doctor visits, prescription drugs, and other medical services.
A joint federal and state program that provides health coverage to low-income individuals and families. Medicaid offers a wide range of healthcare services, including doctor visits, hospital stays, long-term care, and preventive care.
Also known as Obamacare, the ACA is a comprehensive healthcare reform law aimed at expanding access to affordable health insurance, improving healthcare quality, and reducing healthcare costs. It includes provisions such as health insurance marketplaces, subsidies for low-income individuals, and Medicaid expansion.
Digital versions of patients’ paper medical charts, containing comprehensive health information, including medical history, diagnoses, medications, treatment plans, immunization dates, allergies, radiology images, and laboratory test results.
The science and practice of promoting and protecting the health of communities through education, policy development, disease prevention, and health promotion activities. Public health efforts aim to prevent illnesses, injuries, and other health problems before they occur.
Non-medical factors that influence individuals’ health outcomes, including socioeconomic status, education, employment, housing, access to nutritious food, social support networks, and environmental conditions. Addressing social determinants of health is crucial for improving health equity and reducing health disparities.
The use of telecommunications technology, such as video conferencing, remote monitoring, and mobile health apps, to deliver healthcare services and information remotely. Telehealth enables patients to access medical care, consultations, and health education without visiting a healthcare facility in person, improving convenience and expanding access to healthcare services, especially in rural or underserved areas.
The principle of ensuring that everyone has a fair and just opportunity to attain their highest level of health. Health equity involves addressing social, economic, and environmental factors that contribute to health disparities and ensuring that all individuals have access to the resources and opportunities needed to achieve optimal health outcomes.
An approach to healthcare delivery that prioritizes the needs, preferences, and values of patients. Patient-centered care emphasizes collaboration between patients, their families, and healthcare providers in decision-making, respect for patients’ autonomy and dignity, effective communication, and continuity of care to ensure that healthcare services are tailored to meet individual patients’ unique needs and goals.