Delaware’s Health Care Trends 2022: A Mixed Outcome, but a Call for Action to Address Growing Concerns

Delaware’s fourth annual benchmark trend report on health care has been released, highlighting both positive and negative trends in the state. While per capita health care spending increased by over 6%, exceeding the benchmark growth rate of 3%, the results of quality measures showed a mixed outcome.

The report for 2022 focuses on reducing the economic burden of health care spending and improving quality measures within the health care system. However, some areas of improvement were identified, such as the use of opioids at high dosages and statin therapy for cardiovascular disease patients. The report also revealed concerning trends, including opioid-related deaths, which were well above the benchmark in 2022 and increased from the previous year. Adult obesity rates were also above the benchmark by 6%, with an increase from 2021, leading to worries from health officials like Steven Costantino, director of health care reform for the Department of Health and Social Services.

Costantino expressed particular concern regarding the obesity issue and its link to chronic diseases like diabetes and cardiovascular disease. He emphasized the need for more interventions and preventative measures to address this rising trend. The report also highlighted areas where certain screenings, such as cervical cancer screening for Medicaid patients, did not meet the benchmark, indicating disparities in care across different populations.

Despite these challenges, policymakers are considering alternative approaches to improve health care delivery and outcomes in Delaware. The report analyzed nine key areas by age, gender, and race/ethnicity to provide a comprehensive overview of health care trends in Delaware.

Overall, this year’s trend report highlights both progress and challenges in Delaware’s efforts to improve its healthcare system. While some improvements have been made in certain areas, there is still much work to be done to address concerning trends like opioid-related deaths and adult obesity rates. Policymakers must continue to explore innovative solutions that can improve both quality outcomes and reduce healthcare costs for all residents of Delaware.