Strengthening Maryland's Health System through Home Health Care
Maryland's health system is facing increasing pressure due to overextended hospitals, rising long-term care costs, and a growing aging population.
According to the Census Bureau, by 2030, 22% of Maryland's population will be age 60 or older, a 26% increase from 2012.
This surge will put a strain on the state's healthcare infrastructure, including hospitals, assisted living facilities, and home-based caregiving.
Benefits of Expanding Home Health Care
Expanding home health care is a promising solution to this growing strain, as it can reduce hospital readmissions and costs.
Maryland's hospitals, such as Johns Hopkins in Baltimore and regional facilities in counties like Montgomery and Wicomico, are reporting high patient volumes and readmission rates for chronic conditions like heart failure, diabetes, and respiratory illness.
Expanding home health care represents one of the most promising solutions to this growing strain.
Author's summary: Expanding home health care can help strengthen Maryland's health system.