What does demand management aim to achieve in healthcare?

• A. Increasing hospital admissions
• B. Reducing unnecessary costs from avoidable visits
• C. Enhancing fragmented care delivery
• D. Expanding in-person consultations only

Answer: (B)

Demand management in healthcare is primarily focused on reducing unnecessary costs associated with avoidable visits. This approach aims to optimize resource utilization by effectively managing patient needs and healthcare services, ensuring that individuals receive the right care at the right time. By doing so, it helps prevent situations where patients may seek care inappropriately, such as using the emergency department for non-emergent conditions.

This strategy is beneficial for maintaining the effectiveness and efficiency of healthcare systems, as it not only mitigates financial burdens but also enhances patient care by directing them to the most suitable and cost-effective services. Consequently, demand management promotes a more sustainable healthcare environment by addressing issues that lead to excessive or redundant healthcare use.

The other options do not align with the core objectives of demand management. Increasing hospital admissions contradicts the goal of minimizing unnecessary healthcare utilization. Enhancing fragmented care delivery deviates from streamlining services, while focusing solely on expanding in-person consultations overlooks the broader scope of managing healthcare demand effectively.