Epidemiology of Health and Illness

Health and Illness

Epidemiology of Health and Illness

            Epidemiology describes the study of the distribution of health and illnesses in people and the agents that cause the health and illnesses. The variables that influence the maintenance of health are also studied. Epidemiology provides the data and information needed in planning primary and secondary preventive interventions. The data gives policymakers, healthcare facilities, providers and other concerned stakeholders valuable insights on the individuals and populations at risk of particular health problems, their unique needs, health-seeking behaviors and the available healthcare resources in the community (Lundy & Janes, 2014, p. 114). The stakeholders can then implement the relevant measures to meet the identified healthcare needs.

Transforming the Public’s Healthcare Systems

            The U.S healthcare system is afflicted by many problems that hinder optimal patient outcomes despite the high healthcare spending and investment in advanced healthcare technology. State and federal governments are adopting legislation to cover costs and the care delivery processes in the attempt to address the current and emerging healthcare issues. These regulations have influenced transformations at the individual and institutional levels. Many traditional healthcare systems are transitioning to accommodate the needs of consumers, providers, payers, employers and the government based on the mandates outlined in Affordable Care Act (ACA) and other healthcare bills (p. 137).

Global Health

            The interconnection of different parts of the world through advanced technology and travel has exposed individuals and communities to a multitude of diseases and conditions (p. 174). These risks have influenced the expansion of healthcare processes to accommodate health issues reported in other parts of the world. Reviewing the health trends in the places where a patient might have traveled recently has become an integral part of the patient assessment and diagnosis process. Furthermore, many international health organizations have been formed to coordinate cross-border monitoring and management of diseases.