NEEDED BY 11/16/2017 8AM Select and describe one of the key factors that influenced the evolution of the U.S. health care delivery system to what it is today. What challenges and opportunities are still relevant? How is the selected key factor affecting health care delivery today? How might it affect future health care delivery? – Use at least 2 APA refernces – Answer questions straight to the point
One of the key factors that influenced the evolution of the U.S. health care delivery system is the development and implementation of health insurance. Health insurance emerged as a response to the rising costs of medical care and the need to provide financial protection for individuals against catastrophic health events. This key factor has had a significant impact on the U.S. health care delivery system, shaping its structure, financing, and access to care.
The challenges and opportunities that are still relevant regarding health insurance in the U.S. include issues related to affordability, accessibility, and quality of care. Despite the existence of various health insurance programs, there are still many individuals who are uninsured or underinsured, leading to disparities in access to care. Additionally, the rising costs of health insurance premiums and out-of-pocket expenses pose challenges for individuals and families, making it difficult for them to afford necessary medical services. The quality of care also remains a concern, as health insurance coverage does not always guarantee timely access to high-quality and evidence-based treatments.
The selected key factor of health insurance continues to affect health care delivery today by influencing the choice of health care providers, the availability of services, and the efficiency of care. Health insurance plans often have networks of preferred providers, and individuals are encouraged to seek care from these providers to receive the highest level of coverage. This has led to the consolidation of health care providers, such as hospitals and physician practices, as smaller providers may struggle to negotiate favorable contracts with insurance companies. Moreover, health insurance plans may limit the coverage of certain services or medications, which can impact the availability of these treatments for patients. This can lead to disparities in care and access to specialized services, especially for individuals with complex health needs. Finally, health insurance plays a role in the management and coordination of care, as insurers may implement utilization management strategies to control costs and promote appropriate use of services.
The future of health care delivery in the U.S. will continue to be influenced by health insurance. One major area of concern is the sustainability of existing health insurance programs, such as Medicare and Medicaid, given the aging population and rising health care costs. Increasingly, there is a need for innovative solutions to address the financing and delivery of care to ensure the affordability and accessibility of health services for all individuals. Additionally, the continued advancement of medical technology and treatments may lead to higher health care costs, challenging the sustainability of health insurance coverage. As such, there is a growing emphasis on value-based care and payment models that focus on improving outcomes and controlling costs.
In summary, the development and implementation of health insurance have been a key factor in shaping the U.S. health care delivery system. While it has provided financial protection and access to care for many individuals, challenges related to affordability, accessibility, and quality of care remain. Health insurance continues to influence health care delivery today by shaping provider networks, service availability, and care coordination. Looking ahead, the sustainability of health insurance programs and the need for innovative solutions will shape the future of health care delivery in the U.S.