Delaware recently published its fourth annual benchmark trend report on healthcare, highlighting both positive and negative trends in the state. The 2022 report focused on reducing the economic burden of healthcare spending and improving quality measures within the healthcare system. While per capita healthcare spending increased by over 6%, surpassing the benchmark growth rate of 3%, the results of quality measures showed a mixed outcome.
Some areas of improvement included the use of opioids at high dosages and statin therapy for cardiovascular disease patients. However, opioid-related deaths were well above the benchmark in 2022 and increased from the previous year, leading to concerns from health officials like Steven Costantino, director of health care reform for the Department of Health and Social Services. He emphasized the need for more interventions and preventative measures to address this rising trend.
The report also highlighted disparities in care across different populations, with certain screenings such as cervical cancer screening for Medicaid patients not meeting the benchmark. Despite an increase in healthcare spending, there is a disconnect between spending and quality outcomes, prompting policymakers to consider alternative approaches to improve healthcare delivery and outcomes.
The report analyzed nine key areas by age, gender, and race/ethnicity to provide a comprehensive overview of healthcare trends in Delaware.
Overall, while there were some positive improvements in certain areas of healthcare delivery in Delaware, there are still challenges that need to be addressed to ensure equitable access to quality care for all residents.
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