#Healthcare2030

First you have to realize there is a problem. Then you have to accept the responsibility to do something about it. We all live in today and the near future, but, what if we looked ahead 10-15 years and imagined a life with altered outcomes because we aimed at making change, positive change, and we set about trying to make our outcomes different? That is the premise of “Healthcare2030”, an interactive presentation that Sam Smith, VP Business Development, AXXESS and I presented at the Minnesota HomeCare Association technology conference this past week in Minneapolis. We polled the audience as we spoke as to what they felt were the biggest challenges to our being able to meet the demands of the demographic, technological and regulatory changes that are happening and that will all collide around 2030 when the boomers hit 80-85 and the stresses and strains on our system will become overwhelming, unless we set about to make different outcomes.

Technology is the biggest driver of change. We see it all around us. Mobile communication is pervasive and becoming more so. If you cannot do it, reach it, buy it or communicate with it on a mobile device, you are left behind. Communication and businesses alike are all focusing on mobile, and, as the world becomes more connected, the importance of mobile will continue to increase. This instant access, and micro-marketing moments of possibility changes all. The “uberization” of business is also eliminating the middle man. Now, in home care there are some limiting factors, but, the ability to connect those who provide service with those who need service increases the chances of getting service where it is needed, when it is needed, and, that will, no doubt be a model that just continues to grow and gain acceptance.

There are lots of other insights to be gained, and many questions to be asked and left unanswered, as we explore this futuristic exercise that will, hopefully, be a catalyst for change in our industry. We all know that as we age, and become frail, we want to remain in our familiar and comfortable home settings. How we do that is really left up to us to figure out, since we are in the industry and should be charged with those things. Simply sitting back, accepting the regulations, restrictions, limitations and reimbursement refinements that are coming our way will not get us there. It is going to take an army of dedicated, professional and committed people to create our own future for healthcare at home. Are you up to the challenge?

Join your state home care association. Join the VNAA. Join the Alliance for Home Health Quality and Innovation

. Become active in the industry. And, watch for future presentations of #Healthcare2030 and keep abreast of ideas that float to the top.