Health, Mental Health, and Social Justice

Consider this: In what many label the “richest country in the world,” why are 29 million Americans without basic health insurance, and why are the numbers of uninsured African Americans, Hispanics, and immigrants so disproportionate compared to Caucasians? The consequences for those who cannot afford or are not offered health insurance can be life altering, with the Institute of Medicine estimating that 18,000 Americans die prematurely each year because they lack health insurance. With a tradition of striving for solutions, we can use our knowledge and experience as social workers to create new movements to improve healthcare access. To do this, however, we must understand the historical developments in the healthcare sector, prior and current legislative efforts to address and regulate this sector, and the ideologies that underpin America’s approach to healthcare.
Background Information
The assignments in this workshop will provide you with an overview of the American healthcare system, its ideological underpinnings, and its legacy of discrimination. Through your readings you will be prompted to formulate your own opinions regarding how to improve our current healthcare system while also analyzing this system through the lens of social work ethics and core values.
Instructions

  1. In your textbook, Social Policy and Social Change,read Chapter 10, “Health, Mental Health, and Social Justice.”
  2. Respond to the following prompts in order and completely a Christian viewpoint:

a. In your opinion, is healthcare a right or a privilege? How might you interpret the NASW Code of Ethics in relation to universal healthcare?
b. There are many differences between liberals and conservatives on this issue. Summarize a public policy controversy covered in the news regarding the Affordable Care Act. What is your opinion on the controversy?
c. Do you feel our current health insurance system is working? Is it efficient? Is it cost effective? Provide evidence for your claims.
d. Please discuss your role and responsibilities as a social worker for advocating for change within this system.

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