Discussion Question 2.1

Explain the difference between Medicare and Medicaid.  What role do you think the government should have in aiding the uninsured?

Discussion Assignment 2.2 

Analyzing a Core Health or Healthcare Policy (PAPER ASSIGNMENT)

This week, you are asked to analyze a policy about health or healthcare.  Examples might include policies on scope of practice for healthcare practitioners or on health insurance for children.  After selecting your policy, locate resources to help you understand the specifics of it, including how its programs are organized and financed, how the services are delivered, and, generally, how well the policy has been implemented to date.Make sure to select a policy on which you can focus in some detail.  If you choose to analyze the policy on insurance for poor children, for example, you will soon discover that this policy differs from state to state, so you might wish to focus primarily on your state’s policy.  There are many reputable websites to help search for an appropriate policy for this week’s assignment.In addition, learn about the pros and cons of this policy by locating opinion statements issued by state or national organizations, such as the American Hospital Association (AHA, http://www.aha.org/advocacy-issues/index.shtml ) or American Medical Association (AMA; http://www.ama-assn.org/ama/pub/about-ama/our-people/house-delegates/policyfinder.page ).  Many of these organizations have websites in which they not only explain their perspective or opinion on a policy, but also have legislative sections with commentary on policy proposals currently under consideration in government.

After reviewing these materials, address the following:

1. Summarize the policy and its main goals.  Describe its implications on organization, financing, and delivery of healthcare services in the U.S.
2. Discuss why you think this policy was introduced and any challenges it has faced.  For example, has it faced major challenges in being funded or implemented?
3. Summarize the opinions you have read.  Based on this and your own understanding of the issue, do you think the policy needs to be changed significantly in order to meet its goals?

Suggested 5 to 8 pages.  APA formatting is required.  A minimum of 2 academic or professional resources is required.