In its initial stages, the COVID-19 pandemic really stretched the healthcare industry to its limits. While the situation now isn’t as dire as it was in 2020, the pandemic has left a lasting impact on the healthcare sector; one that can’t be undone overnight. Here’s how the coronavirus pandemic has impacted healthcare services.
Reduced Volume of Elective Procedure
The disruption of the pandemic on the healthcare service industry reduced the volume of ambulatory care encounters and elective procedures. This created serious problems for many patients. A survey by MGMA demonstrated that, on average, a 60% decrease in patient volume has been observed since the onset of the outbreak. Procedural specialties with dermatology suffered the greatest volume of decline, decreasing by 72%, ophthalmology went down by 78%, surgery went down by 65%, and a decrease in cognitive specialties between 31 and 47% by April 2020.
Reduced Patient Visits
Regardless of a recent rebound, commonwealth funds reported a 25% to 33% drop in healthcare provider visits than pre-pandemic levels. Furthermore, the August Physicians Foundation shows that around 16,000 physicians closed their practices due to the impact of the pandemic. However, the impact of the pandemic is variable by the healthcare system, provider organization, and the market. However, the pressure it has placed on healthcare service volume is irrefutable and widespread.
Deteriorating Payer Mix
Along with service volume declines, the payer mix continues to deteriorate. This is due to the major increase in reliance on self-payment and Medicaid by consumers and the loss of private insurance coverage due to increased unemployment. According to an analysis by Urban Institute, the uninsured population is expected to grow by 7 million. Twenty-five million could be gained due to a lack of employer-sponsored insurance. A survey by the Physicians Foundation survey shows that around 76% of the nation’s doctors believe that loss of health insurance and employment changes is the second greatest reason for potential harm to patients.
Increased Patient Anxiety
High-level anxiety has been diagnosed in patients due to the pandemic. Their concerns include personal well-being and safety, using services that are available at home, and access to more convenient healthcare sites. It is not surprising that people continue to skip interactions with hospitals and physicians altogether. Patients are looking for safety and are trying to regain a sense of control, hope, and connection to reduce their anxiety. It is important for healthcare providers and physicians to actively pursue ways that mitigate patient fear, build trust, improve safety, and provide coordination and connection for patients.
The effect of the pandemic on healthcare services is great, but efficient approaches are being used to minimize it. One such efficient approach is the launching of platforms like FastDocNow. FastDocNow is an online healthcare service that provides virtual medical consultation and other healthcare services like virtual doctors, online prescription refills, and a lot more. View their services to learn more about what they offer.