21st Century Healthcare Systems

Discuss the government’s role in the delivery and financing of healthcare, with specific reference to the dichotomy between nonprofit health systems and for-profit health systems. Please read the New York Times article “Private Equity Pursues Profits in Keeping the Elderly at Home” as a starting point for thinking about the issues regarding government’s involvement in healthcare. You should also reference the Affordable Care Act review video, the article “The U.S. Affordable Care Act: Reflections and Directions at the Close of a Decade,” and the article “Affordable Care Act at 5 Years,” but you may also include other relevant academic research that you have found. Sources that must be used: Varney, S. (2016, August 20). Private equity pursues profits in keeping the elderly at home. The New York Times. https://nyti.ms/2buGHwM Antos, J., Capretta, J. C., Jost, T., & Pauly, M. (2014). Affordable Care Act review [Video file]. C-SPAN https://www.c-span.org/video/?319034-1/health-care-law-anniversary-review McIntyre, A., & Song, Z. (2019). The U.S. Affordable Care Act: Reflections and directions at the close of a decade. PLoS Med 16(2). https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pmed.1002752              
One example of this dichotomy can be seen in how private equity is being used to finance home care for the elderly population, like what is discussed in “Private Equity Pursues Profits in Keeping the Elderly at Home” article published by The New York Times. Private equity firms have become increasingly involved in providing traditional home care services such as housekeeping, bathing assistance, medication reminders etc., while offering additional benefits like telehealth options which enable virtual visits with clinicians who can diagnose ailments remotely without having patient physically present . This type business model incentivizes companies prioritize their own financial interests rather than focusing on delivering quality service those whom they serve thereby creating potential conflict interest when setting prices impacting availability certain treatments financially strapped patients or even entire communities depending size organization . In response this , Affordable Care Act (ACA) was created 2010 order bring about much needed changes way US healthcare system operated hoping reduce cost improve coverage individuals across nation . This included increased transparency consumers regarding fees charged insurers make it easier them compare offerings better understand costs associated visit doctor dentist specialist etc.. Additionally measure also provided subsidies low income families help pay premiums potentially avoid out pocket expenses due medical bills imposed new taxes fund insurance plans strengthen Medicare program various ways . While ACA successfully addressed some issues related pricing affordability many others still remain , leading policy makers seek alternative methods address growing demand increasing access services treatment necessary treat chronic illnesses ensure good quality life those need it most – regardless whether individual seeking help happens belong nonprofit or private entity Therefore understanding role government must play protecting citizens without sacrificing principles free market economics key ensuring everyone receives equal healthcare rights no matter circumstances support come from. Overall government plays an essential part regulating aspects healthcare industry directly influencing price structure means funding different initiatives future progress sector allocating resources where necessary order keep costs under control allowing people receive important treatments medications time need them making sure no one left behind simply because cannot afford it regardless background race socio economic status gender identity etc .. As discuss continues amidst changing regulations environment surrounding industry finding right balance public private responsibility will remain forefront conversations decades come .

Sample Solution

The government’s role in the delivery and financing of healthcare has always been complex with a long history of developing policies to balance access and cost. In recent times, the debate around health care has mainly focused on the dichotomy between nonprofit health systems and for-profit health systems. Nonprofit organizations are typically run by volunteers or professionals whose goals are to provide quality services that benefit society as a whole. For-profit organizations seek to maximize profits from investors through efficient operations and cost effective solutions.