In our quest to make workplaces an environment where individuals can bring their whole and authentic self, the reality of setbacks, sicknesses, physical and mental health issues, short and chronic illness need to be taken into account.
Although many young adults are indeed healthy, those with disabilities and chronic illnesses need significant medical care.
People diagnosed with chronic illnesses need timely access to information and early intervention strategies to avoid acute health problems and better manage the stresses of illness and disability.
The factors determining lower utilization among those with chronic illnesses need further research to better understand possible barriers to their health care utilization experienced by the population with chronic health problems.
If we take seriously the principle of equitable access based on patient need, the first step would be to determine in consultation with key stakeholder groups what people with disabilities and chronic illnesses need – that is, to identify a set of core programs and services, including high priority services.
A patient recently discharged from the hospital may need brief transition care support, while a patient with poorly controlled chronic illness may need disease management, self-management support and a care plan as well as links to community resources and supports.
Third, this study indicates that Aboriginal cardiac patients have a poor knowledge of their illness which affects the management of their chronic illness, perceived need for future HCU, and overall health outcomes.
There are currently three million people aged over 80 years and this is projected to reach eight million by 2050. 1 Older adults are more likely to suffer with chronic illness and need to take medicines to maintain health and quality of life.
29, 30 However, health professionals do not always recognise that individuals with disabilities or those with chronic illness have sexual needs, so their patients' sexual health is often overlooked or neglected.
