What is the primary purpose of population health management?

The primary purpose of population health management is to address social and environmental health factors, which encompasses a broader understanding of health determinants beyond just biological or clinical factors. By focusing on these social determinants—such as socioeconomic status, education, and access to healthcare—population health management seeks to improve health outcomes for entire communities or populations, rather than just treating individuals in isolation.

This approach aims to identify at-risk groups and implement strategies that enhance their overall health, reduce disparities, and promote wellness throughout various population segments. By addressing these underlying factors, population health management can lead to sustainable improvements in health and a reduction in the prevalence of diseases, ultimately enhancing the efficiency of healthcare systems.

Other choices do not capture the essence of population health management. For instance, targeting individual patient needs is a more personalized approach, while reducing the healthcare workforce contradicts the goal of enhancing healthcare delivery. Implementing costly medical technologies focuses narrowly on specific interventions rather than considering the general health of populations.