Health policy
When politics and medical science intersect, there can be much debate. Sometimes anecdotes or hearsay are misused as evidence to support a particular point. Despite these and other challenges, however, evidence-based approaches are increasingly used to inform health policy decision-making regarding causes of disease, intervention strategies, and issues impacting society. One example is the introduction of childhood vaccinations and the use of evidence-based arguments surrounding their safety.
In this Discussion, you will identify a recently proposed health policy and share your analysis of the evidence in support of this policy.
To Prepare:
Review the Congress website provided in the Resources and identify one recent (within the past 5 years) proposed health policy.
Review the health policy you identified and reflect on the background and development of this health policy.
Post a description of the health policy you selected and a brief background for the problem or issue being addressed. Which social determinant most affects this policy? Explain whether you believe there is an evidence base to support the proposed policy and explain why. Be specific and provide examples
Sample Answer
Recently Proposed Health Policy:
Medicare for All
Background and Development:
Medicare for All is a proposed health care system in the United States that would provide universal health insurance coverage to all Americans. The system would be funded through a single-payer system, meaning that the government would be the sole payer for health care services.
The Medicare for All movement has been gaining momentum in recent years, with a number of Democratic presidential candidates endorsing the proposal. However, the proposal has also faced strong opposition from Republicans and some Democrats.