Topic: Write a 750 Word Paper Times New Roman Size 12 Font Double-Spaced APA Format Excluding the Title and Reference Pages on governmental policy in general.
Cite at least two resources in addition to your textbook.
Shi, L., & Singh, D. A. (2019). Essentials of the U.S. health care system (5th ed.). Burlington, MA: Jones and Bartlett Learning. ISBN-13: 9781284156720
How to solve
HLT 205 Healthcare Systems
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Introduction:
Governmental policy plays a crucial role in shaping the healthcare system of a country. It determines the allocation of resources, accessibility of healthcare services, and overall quality of care. This paper aims to provide an overview of governmental policy in general, highlighting its components, functions, and impact on the healthcare system. Additionally, this paper will discuss the role of governmental policy in the United States healthcare system, with references to relevant resources.
Answer:
Governmental policy refers to a set of laws, regulations, and guidelines formulated by a governing body to govern various aspects of a nation, including healthcare. It acts as a framework that outlines the rules and principles guiding the healthcare system and influences its development and operation. Governmental policies aim to achieve specific objectives such as improving health outcomes, enhancing patient safety, promoting equitable access to healthcare, and controlling costs (Shi & Singh, 2019).
Healthcare policy in the United States is shaped by various stakeholders, including government agencies, policymakers, healthcare providers, insurance companies, and patient advocacy groups. It involves a complex interplay between public and private sectors, with policies crafted at the federal, state, and local levels. The United States healthcare system is unique among developed countries due to its reliance on a predominantly private health insurance system, with a significant role of the government in regulatory oversight (Shi & Singh, 2019).
Key components of governmental healthcare policy include legislation, regulations, and programs. Legislation is developed through the legislative process involving the proposal, debates, and approval of healthcare-related bills. Regulations are rules and guidelines created by government agencies based on the authority granted by legislation. Programs are initiatives implemented to achieve specific healthcare goals, such as Medicare and Medicaid in the United States (Shi & Singh, 2019).
Governmental policy in healthcare serves multiple functions. Firstly, it establishes the legal and ethical framework within which healthcare professionals and institutions operate. Policies dictate standards of care, professional licensure requirements, and ethical guidelines, ensuring the provision of safe and high-quality healthcare services. Secondly, governmental policy aims to ensure equitable access to healthcare for all citizens, reducing disparities in healthcare delivery based on socio-economic factors. It may include initiatives like public health programs, Medicaid expansion, or subsidies for low-income individuals (Shi & Singh, 2019).
Moreover, governmental policy facilitates the implementation of healthcare delivery models and promotes innovation. It supports the adoption of evidence-based practices, advanced health technologies, and improved care coordination. Additionally, policy plays a crucial role in healthcare financing by regulating insurance markets, developing reimbursement systems, and managing public funding for healthcare programs (Shi & Singh, 2019).
The impact of governmental policy on the healthcare system is far-reaching. It shapes the availability and accessibility of healthcare services, the behavior of healthcare providers, and the financial sustainability of the system. Well-designed policies can lead to improved health outcomes, enhanced patient safety, and increased efficiency. Conversely, poorly implemented policies may result in fragmented care, limited access, and financial burdens on both patients and providers (Shi & Singh, 2019).
In conclusion, governmental policy is a fundamental aspect of healthcare systems worldwide, including the United States. It serves as a guiding framework that shapes the allocation of resources, accessibility of care, and overall quality of healthcare services. By understanding the components, functions, and impact of governmental policy, healthcare professionals can navigate the complex landscape of healthcare delivery and contribute to the improvement of the system for the benefit of all stakeholders.
References:
Shi, L., & Singh, D. A. (2019). Essentials of the U.S. health care system (5th ed.). Burlington, MA: Jones and Bartlett Learning. ISBN-13: 9781284156720.
