Reducing the burden...it's a phrase we hear all too often in healthcare.
In my 25+ years in home care, I’ve even been known to use the term especially in discussions of co-managing cost and quality.
Caregiver burden, administrative burden, patient load resulting in provider burden. But what about the patient perspective?
As a healthcare futurist, theologian, rare disease advocate, and now a home care patient myself, I believe it's crucial that we protect the humanity of the healthcare system.
It starts with language - how we think about those we serve, how we communicate with our audiences, and how we view our daily work.
Having been on both sides of the healthcare system, I can tell you that the conversations about the future of care delivery looks very different from the patient perspective. I've been encouraged to share my experiences, and I plan to do just that.
One thing that doesn't sit right with me is the word "burden."
Ask yourself...
If I had an accident and became homebound in need of home health services tomorrow, would I want to be thought of as a burden? How would I feel about the constant use of the term "caregiver burden?"
Burden is a term used all too often in the industry, and it's one that I believe needs to be rethought.
As a CEO, a strategist, and a patient, I know firsthand the challenges that come with healthcare. But I also know that we can do better.
So, how does "burden" sit with you? Let's start a conversation about how we can improve the healthcare system for everyone.
To know me is to know that I think in imagery and color first - I am one of 32 Acquired Savants in the world (on the registry). You can read more about my story on my website www.NOVELORICA.com.
I'm adding a new section to my blog posts.
From time to time - perhaps every time - I will explore visuals associated with key the main topic of my blog post.
But here's the kicker...
I will produce the image using generative AI so that I can demonstrate the current state of "thinking" on issues that can be subject to bias and problematic interpretation; or - conversely - instances where the bot gets it right.
I will present the images without my commentary... for now.
BURDEN
BURDEN in Home Healthcare
Caregiver BURDEN in Home Healthcare
Administrative BURDEN in Home Healthcare
Note - I've been querying various generative AI tools almost daily for more than a year. I'm excited to begin sharing some of this with you. If you haven't already subscribed to my blog, please do so today! If you find this content interesting, please share!
All images created by Artist Heather Thompson using Generative AI technology.