Whether driven by pandemics, escalating chronic disease rates or climate-related health crises, health systems, communities and individuals are struggling. Often, these challenges stem from systemic stresses that are difficult to resolve without comprehensive change.
We are facing a health crisis of unprecedented proportions. Patients are waiting longer to receive care in hospitals and at community-based healthcare organizations. Many have been unable to get the treatment they need due to staffing shortages, facility closures and rising operating costs. This has created unrelenting pressures that threaten to undermine the very foundation of our healthcare systems and put Massachusetts residents’ health at risk.
In addition, a growing number of people have mental illnesses and substance use disorders that are often overlooked and undertreated. Despite advances in treatment and research, only half of all people living with serious mental illness (SMI) receive appropriate care. This includes those who need medication and psychosocial interventions, as well as rehabilitative services such as housing and employment supports.
Health crises are exacerbated by social determinants of health, including poverty, education and access to healthcare. Marginalized populations, such as communities of color and those with lower incomes, are more likely to bear the brunt of health emergencies, including public health disasters that result in high morbidity and mortality rates. We must address these issues, which must be integrated into the broader framework of our health system redesign. This includes ensuring that all individuals have the opportunity to live a dignified life with good nutrition, housing and affordable healthcare.