Journal of Physical Therapy and Sports Medicine

All submissions of the EM system will be redirected to Online Manuscript Submission System. Authors are requested to submit articles directly to Online Manuscript Submission System of respective journal.
Reach Us +1 (629)348-3199

Rapid Communication - Journal of Physical Therapy and Sports Medicine (2024) Volume 8, Issue 5

Continuity of Care: Key to Improving Patient Outcomes and Healthcare Efficiency.

Lavei Carly*

Department of Cardiovascular Diseases, Ochsner Clinical School-the University of Queensland School of Medicine, New Orleans, USA

*Corresponding Author:
Lavei Carly
Department of Cardiovascular Diseases,
Ochsner Clinical School-the University of Queensland School of Medicine, New Orleans,
USA
E-mail:lavei.c@ochsner.orgde

Received: 02-Sep-2024, Manuscript No.AAJPTSM-24-154516; Editor assigned: 04-Sep-2024, PreQC No. AAJPTSM-24-154516;(PQ); Reviewed: 18-Sep-2024, QC No AAJPTSM-24-154516; Revised: 21-Sep-2024, QC No AAJPTSM-24-154516; Published: 30- Sep-2024, DOI:10.35841/aajptsm-8.5.230

Citation: Carly L. Continuity of Care: Key to Improving Patient Outcomes and Healthcare Efficiency. J Phys Ther Sports Med. 2024; 8(5):230.

Visit for more related articles at Journal of Physical Therapy and Sports Medicine

Abstract

  

Introction

 

Continuity of Care (CoC) is a fundamental principle in healthcare delivery, referring to the consistent and coordinated provision of care over time, particularly in situations where patients transition between different providers and care settings [1].

It emphasizes maintaining a smooth and uninterrupted care experience, which is critical for ensuring optimal health outcomes. Continuity of care plays a central role in chronic disease management, reducing hospital readmissions, improving patient satisfaction, and enhancing overall healthcare efficiency. Continuity of care can be classified into three key dimensions informational continuity, management continuity[2].

Informational continuity refers to the availability of accurate, up-to-date medical information, such as health records and test results, which must be shared effectively between healthcare providers. Management continuity pertains to the coordination of care between different providers and healthcare settings to ensure that the patient receives a seamless experience. This is especially important for individuals with complex or chronic conditions who require multiple interventions [3].

Relational continuity, perhaps the most patient-centric aspect, focuses on the development of a long-term, trusting relationship between patients and their primary healthcare providers. This continuity has been shown to improve patient adherence to treatment plans and overall satisfaction [4].

The benefits of continuity of care extend beyond patient satisfaction to tangible improvements in health outcomes. Studies indicate that patients who experience consistent and coordinated care are less likely to experience adverse events, such as hospitalizations and emergency department visits [5].

Continuity of care is particularly crucial for patients with chronic diseases, where long-term, continuous management is necessary to prevent complications and improve disease control. has demonstrated that patients with chronic conditions [6].

such as diabetes and hypertension, benefit significantly from continuous care, which leads to better disease management and reduced hospitalization rates. Additionally, relational continuity strengthens the patient-provider relationship [7].

fostering trust and enhancing communication, which are vital for delivering high-quality care When patients feel connected to their healthcare providers, they are more likely to engage in preventive care, follow treatment protocols, and communicate openly about their health issues. Despite its benefits, achieving continuity of care remains a significant challenge, particularly in fragmented healthcare systems [8].

One major barrier is the lack of communication and coordination between different healthcare providers. When patients visit multiple specialists or move between care settings, critical information can be lost or delayed, leading to fragmented care and potential medication errors. Moreover, in many healthcare systems, patients often encounter different clinicians at each visit, which undermines the development of long-term relationships and reduces the opportunity for relational continuity. Technological limitations also play a role [9].

While electronic health records (EHRs) have the potential to enhance informational continuity, the lack of interoperability between different EHR systems can result in gaps in information transfer. The time constraints on healthcare professionals further hinder the ability to provide continuous care, as many providers are overwhelmed by administrative tasks and short consultation times [10].

Conclusion

Continuity of care is essential for delivering high-quality, patient-centered healthcare, particularly for those with chronic conditions. It improves patient outcomes, enhances satisfaction, and reduces healthcare costs by preventing unnecessary hospitalizations and emergency visits. However, achieving true continuity of care requires overcoming systemic barriers such as fragmented healthcare services, inadequate communication, and technological limitations. Addressing these challenges will ensure that continuity of care remains a central component of healthcare systems worldwide.

References

  1. Cooper Z, Gibbons S, Jones S, et al. Does hospital competition save lives? Evidence from the English NHS patient choice reformsThe Econ J. 2011;121(554):F228-60.

    2. Indexed at, Google Scholar, Cross Ref

  2. Gowrisankaran G, Town RJ. Competition, payers, and hospital quality 1Health Serv Res. 2003; 38(6p1):1403-22.

    3. Indexed at, Google Scholar, Cross Ref

  3. Rubino C, Di Maria C, Abbruzzo A, et al. Socio-economic inequality, interregional mobility and mortality among cancer patients: A mediation analysis approach. Socio-Econ Plann Sci. 2022:101247.

    4. Google Scholar

  4. Lega F, Sargiacomo M, Ianni L.The rise of governmentality in the Italian National Health System: physiology or pathology of a decentralized and (ongoing) federalist system?.Health Serv Manag Res. 2010;23(4):172-80.

    5. Indexed at, Cross Ref

  5. Levaggi R, Zanola R.Patients' migration across regions: the case of Italy.BMC Health Serv Res. 2013;13(1):1-9.

    6. Google Scholar, Cross Ref

  6. Kristiansson P, Svardsudd K, von Schoultz B." target="_blank"> Back pain during pregnancy: A prospective study Spine. 1996;21(6):702-8.

    7. Indexed at, Google Scholar, Cross Ref

  7. Ternov NK, Grennert L, Åberg A, et al.Acupuncture for lower back and pelvic pain in late pregnancy: a retrospective report on 167 consecutive cases..Pain Med. 2001;2(3):204-7.

    8. Indexed at, Google Scholar, Cross Ref

  8. Kvorning TN, Nilsson M, Lofberg L, et al.Acupuncture for pain relief during childbirthAcupuncture & Electro-Ther Res. 1998;23(1):19-26.

    9. Indexed at, Google Scholar, Cross Ref

  9. Brynhildsen J, Hansson Å, Persson A, et al.Follow-up of patients with low back pain during pregnancy.Obstetr & Gynecol. 1998;91(2):182-6.

    10. Indexed at, Google Scholar, Cross Ref

  10. Kvorning N, Holmberg C, Grennert L, et al. Acupuncture relieves pelvic and low?back pain in late pregnancy.Acta Obstetr et Gynecol Scandinavica. 2004;83(3):246-50.

    11. Indexed at, Cross Ref

Get the App