
History doesn’t repeat, but it rhymes
The COVID-19 anniversary and war in Ukraine offer a chance to look back on lessons from, and differences with, the 1918 influenza pandemic.
Gavin draws on more than 25 years of experience in communicating about science, medicine and health policy. She focuses mainly on the research of the 640 health services wonks who belong to the U-M Institute for Healthcare Policy and Innovation, who work to understand and improve the safety, quality, equity and affordability of health care. As part of the Michigan Medicine communication team, she has lead responsibility for primary care and mental health topics. Twitter: @Karag
The COVID-19 anniversary and war in Ukraine offer a chance to look back on lessons from, and differences with, the 1918 influenza pandemic.
Elective surgery comes with costs, discomfort, caregiving needs and more – but most adults age 50-80 who opt for an operation were very satisfied they did.
Unequal outcomes, and higher spending, seen in patients over 65 who are “dual eligible” for Medicare and Medicaid.
Primary care’s role in managing COVID-19 patients, and the rapid evolution of telehealth, sets the stage for a different future.
Patients from more socially vulnerable areas were sicker when they got to hospitals, but did just as well by the time they left – suggesting the importance of early and equal access to care.
Nearly 1 in 3 people over 50 with a scheduled procedure, or primary care or dental visit in 2021 had a COVID-related delay; many haven’t gone back yet, especially unvaccinated people.