Both systems are undergoing a similar transformation.
Even though the healthcare systems are different in how they are financed, the triple aim of the transformation is for the most part the same.
The triple aim:
1/ Enhance the patient experience
2/ Reduce the cost of care
3/ Increase population health
Differences to note:
1/ Patient vs. Consumer experience
The US has been trying to engage patients in consumer type behavior to help lower the cost of care. The jury is out on whether it’s having the intended effect or not. However, the word consumer resonates even less in a Canadian healthcare context even though many also have private insurance and pay some healthcare costs out-of-pocket.
2/ Clinical experience and productivity
The 4th aim in Canada whether official or not, is about making things easier for clinicians in order to utilize their time effectively and to reduce the risk of errors. Given the number of reported issues with EHRs and physician burnout, most US physicians would likely sign on to that aim.
Regardless of country, it’s hard to manage risk in large scale transformations without stifling innovation. There are differences in how the risk is being mitigated and managed. I’ll touch on that next.
