We are observing Awareness of Medical Orphans Month this May. It is a month dedicated to raising awareness about medical orphans. The term ‘medical orphans’ refers to patients without a close relationship with their primary care physician either due to choice, having no one to care for them, or having no affordable medication for their condition. Medical orphans are rising in numbers, and the day helps people understand the value of medical attention. Patient-Centered Medical Home (P.C.M.H.) aims at delivering high-quality and cost-effective primary care. Under the system, care teams work to understand the treatment of the patient with comprehensive care plans.
History of Awareness of Medical Orphans Month
We are always looking for ways to prolong life. Our medical system evolved to understand the human body as much as possible, from the macroscopic level to the delicate molecular level. So far, modern medicine has succeeded in most cases. But we have yet to develop mechanisms that can stop the aging process. It is hard for most people to accept old age when they reach that age. But, that is not a universal trait.
Our healthcare system helps people grow, but some people do not want to grow that old. Various factors result in such a preference. The number of people who do not have a close relationship with their primary care physician is increasing day by day. Some are ready to end the path, while others are forced to choose this path due to their situation. Financial status, lack of insurance, fear of treatment, misinformation, unstable mental conditions, and other reasons are among some of the factors. Pharmaceutical companies do not fund research for medicines that cater to rare conditions. This can also increase the number of medical orphans.
Every May, time is dedicated to medical orphans. This is a time for creating awareness. We can use this time to spread the importance of seeking treatment and having a patient-centric medical home. Medical orphans are mostly elderly people. But the number of young people in this condition is also increasing. This increase is what makes the month important in the medical field, and it is time for us to act.
Awareness of Medical Orphans Month timeline
Élie Metchnikoff, a Russian zoologist, starts the use of the term ‘gerontology.’
James Birren starts the organization of gerontology in its field.
President Ronald Reagan signs the Orphan Drug Act.
Hematin becomes the first approved orphan drug.
Awareness of Medical Orphans Month FAQs
What is a Medical Orphan?
A medical orphan is a patient without a close relationship with their primary care physician within the context of a Patient-Centered Medical Home (P.C.M.H.)
What is the importance of health awareness?
Health awareness educates a person to take precautions on health conditions and potential future risks.
Why do patients not go to the doctor?
There may be various factors resulting in patients avoiding doctors. Such reasons include a lack of health insurance and time constraints, fear of being diagnosed with a deadly ailment, and overall lack of a strong will to live among other reasons.
How to Observe Awareness of Medical Orphans Month
Fundraise for the cause
Medical orphans are a rising cause of concern in modern medicine. Do a fundraiser to provide better facilities for the medical orphans.
Share information about medical orphans
‘Medical orphan’ is not a well-known word. Use the day to post about the term and its definition and let more people know about it.
Create a positive atmosphere
Medical orphans need hope and a positive atmosphere. Volunteer with an organization that takes care of medical orphans and makes them comfortable.
5 Facts About Old Age That You Should Know
The average age of the world
The average age of the world population is increasing day by day at a rapid rate.
Future of world age
By 2050, there will be two billion people aged over 60 in the world.
Common cause of death
Heart disease, stroke, and chronic lung disease are common mortalities among elderly people.
Old age and nursing homes
Only 3.6% of people in the world over 65 years old are in nursing homes.
Medical visit comparison
People over 75 years old visit the doctor three times more often than people under 30 years.
Why Awareness of Medical Orphans Month is Important
It’s a month to create awareness
Medical orphan is a new term for most people. This month is the best to raise awareness about the condition of medical orphans.
It’s a month to act
This month is full of activities to help medical orphans. Everyone can be a part of this selfless activity, and we love such acts of kindness.
It’s a month for change
Only through action will there be new changes. This is a month to push new reforms and legislation for the well-being of medical orphans.
Awareness of Medical Orphans Month dates
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 | May 1 | Thursday |
| 2026 | May 1 | Friday |
| 2027 | May 1 | Saturday |
| 2028 | May 1 | Monday |
| 2029 | May 1 | Tuesday |
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