For WNY and the Nation

Americans in general interact with the health system more than any other nation in the world - with generalists and specialists, with clinics and hospitals, for tests and screenings, routine care and outpatient surgery. The elderly - a population surging in Western New York - touch the system even more frequently due to declining health and chronic conditions. Not surprisingly, Americans, like Western New Yorkers, have stated that a more streamlined and simple health system is a top priority. Poorly coordinated care and unnecessary hassles are inefficient, wasteful, to the extent there are simpler ways. Moreover, the "hassle factor" just adds to patient anxiety and stress at a time when they are least capable of coping. Research suggests that quick turnaround times for lab results, short wait times for surgeries and efficient referrals to specialists lead to higher levels of patient satisfaction and loyalty.