An Innovative Public Health Solution with European Features for an American Problem

Abstract Problem The Eastern Shore of Maryland is a beautiful region that boasts a multicultural community of 455,000 year-round residents. Despite its rural location, the coastal lifestyle attracts retirees, making it the state’s oldest population. Unfortunately, the region also has the highest socioeconomic disparities in the state, which creates difficulties in accessing healthcare. This is a significant public health issue that results in costly barriers to preventive care and timely, accounting for $320 billion in unnecessary healthcare spending. Description of the problem Maryland’s healthcare funding formulas favor larger health systems in urban areas, leading to health inequities. To address this, we propose an innovative scenario analysis model partially based on European public health approaches. This model will adjust funding formulas based on each region’s specific needs and challenges, promoting fairness and equity in healthcare funding. Results Adopting this population health management approach would have built-in efficiencies: In the United States, healthcare spending tends to be higher among underserved populations due to delayed care, access challenges, missed diagnoses, and limited access to the latest scientific advances as well as proper preventive services. Lessons The proposed scenario-based public health funding approach targeting the needs of the underserved population on the Eastern Shore of Maryland could yield significant positive health outcomes and health savings generating a ripple effect across the state, and perhaps even the country. The lessons learned in how other countries handle public health funding could lead to global collaboration. Key messages • Our approach aims to provide a practical solution to unnecessary healthcare spending. • We must adapt to the changing tides to stay on course.