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Those Who Suffer: The Effect of Chronic Illness on Health Care Value

A Spectrum Health Value Study^TM Report
Author: Juhi Kunde
Date: May, 2009

Overview:
Chronic illnesses, such as cancer, diabetes and cardiovascular disease, are among the most prevalent and costly health problems facing Americans today.The Spectrum Health Value Study^TM assessed the values, use, and ratings of 27 programs and services, and specifically the differences between sufferers and non-sufferers. In the study, sufferers are self-identified as having suffered from a chronic illness in the past year.

The survey responses suggest that chronic illness can have implications for the way people value and use health insurance. The report concludes that while sufferers used more services and programs than non-sufferers, sufferers tended to be less satisfied with the quality of care they receive. When looking at the 27 programs and services tested, both sufferers and non-sufferers were most satisfied with the surgical services and the over-the-counter drugs available. In addition, sufferers and non-sufferers tended to agree that physician services, hospital medical services and emergency care were of utmost importance.