The US healthcare system is complex and not without controversies and challenges. But now more than ever, practitioners and organizations must work to regain public trust and improve care quality.

While many of the current challenges in healthcare are institutional, physicians can boost quality with office-level changes.

Challenge 1: Practitioner Error

Despite the increasing presence of technology in health, humans are still at the forefront of medical care. And with that comes the potential to make mistakes.

If unaddressed, these issues can lead to various negative outcomes, like medication errors and misdiagnosis.

Solution

Many factors influence how you can reduce errors, which may make it a part of broader quality improvement efforts. Some ways to help lower the likelihood of mistakes include:

• Improving communication efforts
• Increasing staffing or improving scheduling
• Incorporating AI and automated technology to reduce workload and mistakes
• Training about the social determinants of health and race or gender bias

Finding ways to end errors takes practice, but it’s valuable for physicians and their patients.

Challenge 2: Public Distrust

Another challenging issue practitioners face is the growing distrust in the healthcare system. People from all backgrounds have lost faith in medical institutions, making it difficult to encourage proper care.

Solution

To gain trust, practitioners should try patient-centered care. In this model, physicians tailor care to each individual’s concerns and values.

With that in mind, it’s still crucial to be straightforward about evidence-based practices and treatments. Provide patient education with explanations and advocate for policies encouraging health knowledge.

Challenge 3: Technological Advances

Although new technology is widespread, many facilities face barriers that make it hard to use effectively. Between budget constraints and unfamiliar tools, some practitioners have yet to incorporate technology.

Solution

The first step should be discovering which technologies could be valuable for your practice. Research and continuing education can help you stay informed about the latest advancements.

For example, wearable biomedical and diagnostic devices can reduce costs and waste. Patients can use these materials at home, with the device transmitting data to the provider.

Challenge 4: Inefficient Workflows

Another challenge to delivering quality care may be your workflows. For example, prior authorizations and slow communication can cause bottlenecks and delays.

Many organizations are also experiencing shortages in doctors, nurses, and administrative staff.

Solution

To reduce inefficiencies, you must first identify them. Analyze your current workflow to highlight areas that need improvement. Once you have that information, you can develop a new plan that rectifies these issues.

Here are some solutions you may consider during this process:

• Automation and AI technologies
• Outsourcing
• Student-loan forgiveness programs
• Expanded medical education residency slots
• Reduced workloads

These options can help boost staff retention rates, reduce delays, and improve care.

Challenge 5: Financial Challenges

Financial concerns are another force behind many healthcare challenges. Budget constraints and revenue losses can make it difficult to invest in updated equipment or hire new staff.

As a result, practices may limit services or take fewer patients, which reduces access to care.

Solution

Cutting down on expenses can make it easier to invest in resources that can make your practice more efficient. Technology is one of the easiest ways to maximize cost-effectiveness, with options like:

• HIPAA-compliant cloud storage
• Automated scheduling, check-in, and messaging
• Electronic health records
• Telemedicine
• AI

Although these options require an investment, they help you cut costs in other areas, like in-house file storage or office expenses. That frees up your budget for different methods for healthcare quality improvement.

Challenge 6: Knowledge and Skill Advancement

If there’s one thing to keep in mind about the healthcare industry, it’s that things are constantly changing. Physicians must stay on top of everything from technology innovations to new treatments.

However, some providers find this challenging with busy schedules and budget concerns. Since lifelong learning is vital, practitioners must invest in solutions for skill advancement.

Solution

Since doctors must complete continuing medical education (CME) to maintain their license, they need a budget.

Employers should provide an allowance that you can use toward CME expenses. Practitioners should always have this information in writing before signing a contract.

Providers should use the allowance to choose topics that align with their specialty and skillset.

Other Tips

While these issues and solutions are common, you may encounter other quality challenges in healthcare. Here are some additional tips to keep in mind:

• Learn from experience: You might learn new information or see patterns in your day-to-day work. Use this data to adjust your practice or talk to administrators about organizational changes.
• Integrate healthcare: Work toward and advocate for policies and practices supporting integrated health systems. This method prioritizes a set of interdisciplinary providers to help improve health outcomes and boost efficiency.

While many of the solutions in this guide seem simple, putting them into practice is a different story. If you’re unsure how to start, complete in-person or online CME courses centered around these topics.