Write a 3-5 sentence response to these comments:

1.)I believe that the topic of medical technology in the U.S. is very interesting. Our textbook explains that in recent years, technological advances may have accounted for half of the total rise in health care spending.

We understand that patients want the best medical technological advances that are possible. Yet, technology can be very expensive (equipment purchasing and training of staff for the new equipment).

Over the years, I experienced how hospital length of stay became shorter because of less invasive procedures correlated to advances in technology. I also experienced the growth of outpatient departments because some medical procedures no longer required a hospital stay.

Possibly over time, the new technology may pay for itself.

So, ask yourself, what can we do about this? Americans want the best medical technology that is possible, yet it is extremely costly!

2.) Medical technology can be cost-effective or cost-ineffective depending on the technology and its usage. Although new technologies are generally more expensive than older ones, they are often more effective. This effectiveness can lead to long-term savings by reducing the need for costly treatments or by preventing diseases from occurring. However, overuse of new medical technologies can lead to higher costs.

For instance, new cancer drugs are expensive but can be highly effective when used appropriately. When used only when necessary, these drugs can reduce the need for expensive surgery or radiation treatments and save money. However, overuse of these drugs can increase costs unnecessarily.

Ultimately, the cost-effectiveness of medical technology depends on various factors, including the specific technology, the patient's condition, and the healthcare system in which it is used. In some cases, medical technology can be a cost-effective way to improve health outcomes, while in others, it can be a cost-ineffective way to spend money.

3.)

Medical technologies have an important role in healthcare. New technologies have been the root cause for the increase in medical costs. These new technologies require capital - medical practices need to budget for purchasing the technology. These technologies also impact labor. Demand for physicians, technicians, and hospitalists goes up because these will be whom operate the technology. These workers will also have to be paid so cost of labor goes up. In addition, certain technology has to be stationed in exclusive space. This adds a cost for facilities.

Medical technology is needed but it does cause the cost of healthcare to go up. Acquisition costs, personnel training, and facilities all impact this cost

4.)

Healthcare technology is a win/lose on the element of cost. The one thing that comes to mind is the cost of an MRI machine. I read one time that it can cost a hospital between one to three million dollars to buy one. That kind of price tag is then reflected on a patients medical bills. To continue to improve health care and research, money will need to be spent on new technology which does not come cheap. On the other hand, I can see how technology would lower the cost through reduced error. If the health care provider used technology to limit manual processes, improve patient care, and prevent unnecessary testing then it would save a patient money.