For the following case study, identify the source(s) of inefficiency and reduced quality of care. Then, discuss what changes to the medical care delivery system could have improved the patient’s outcome. Be detailed in your response. Consider the micro and macro perspectives covered in Chapter 12, as well as how medical and health information technology covered in Chapter 5 might improve the outcome.
Raymond, a 78 year old man living in a motel is found lying on the floor of his room semi-conscious. The motel manager calls 9-1-1 and Raymond is taken to the closest emergency room where he lies on a stretcher in the hallway for 6 hours before he is examined by a physician. Because it is unclear what is wrong with him and he cannot speak coherently, the physician admits Raymond for observation. Later, when it is determined that Raymond had a stroke, he is discharged to an inpatient rehabilitation facility that has no knowledge of his medical history, including his current medications for hypertention and high cholesterol. Raymond dies there several weeks later.
