Topics
Data Charts
The Value and Use of Preventive and Wellness Health Services
A Spectrum Health Value StudyTM Report
Author: Catherine E. Morrison, MPH
Date:
May, 2009
Overview:
The role of prevention and wellness services in protecting
and promoting health is long established. In fact, the public health movement
was largely born out of the transition from disease treatment to prevention
activities.
The groundbreaking Spectrum Health Value StudyTM compares the relative value of 27 health care products, programs and services to quantify their value from the point of view of American consumers.
The results revealed that access to physician services, access to hospital medical services, and access to emergency care are the three most valued items. Preventive health services ranked 9th while wellness services ranked 14th. However, these services ranked significantly lower when respondents were asked whether they used these services.
This report reviews these data in the context of the current health care policy environment and suggests implications for health care reform.
