Jane Edwards
A new Deloitte study has highlighted the five elements of a smart health community based on interviews conducted by the company’s Center for Government Insights and the Center for Health Solutions with over 12 innovators.
These are the capabilities of SHCs to empower people to manage their well-being and health; promote a sense of belonging and community; adopt behavioral science and digital technology; use of data to enhance health outcomes; and develop new ecosystems, Deloitte said Thursday.
According to the study, the widespread use of mobile and internet technology platforms has encouraged individuals to take part in social media networks and other virtual communities, allowing for more personalized health interventions through SHCs.
The research also cited the potential role of government agencies in the establishment of data-sharing agreements with other stakeholders in the SHC as well as in the creation of pilot and payment models that could help advance the development of SHCs through Medicare, Medicaid and other public health insurance programs.
“All stakeholders in health care – including governments, health plans, providers, life sciences companies and new entrants – can learn and build from the SHC concept,” said Sarah Thomas, managing director for Deloitte services and Center for Health Solutions. “These ecosystems can measure success by their ability to establish consumer loyalty, improve wellness behaviors, increase access and reduce costs.”
