AHRQ releases annual report on health care quality, equity

Life expectancy in the United States is lower than in other developed countries, according to the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality’s 2022 National Healthcare Quality and Disparities Report. The annual report also found COVID-19 was the third leading cause of death in 2020 behind heart disease and cancer. The report stated a shortage of primary care health professionals compromises access to services in more than 60% of U.S. counties. This year’s report includes data on maternal health; child and adolescent mental health; substance use disorders; and oral health. (AHRQ news release, 11/15/22)