Regardless of political affiliation, individuals often grow concerned when considering perceived competing interests of government and their impact on topics of interest to them. The realm of healthcare is no different. Some people feel that local, state, and federal policies and legislation can be either helped or hindered by interests other than the benefit to society.
Consider for example that the number one job of a legislator is to be reelected. Cost can be measured in votes as well as dollars. Thus, it is important to consider the legislator’s perspective on either promoting or not promoting a certain initiative in the political landscape.
To Prepare:
· Review the Resources and reflect on efforts to repeal/replace the Affordable Care Act (ACA).
· Consider who benefits the most when policy is developed and in the context of policy implementation.
Post an explanation for how you think the cost-benefit analysis in terms of legislators being reelected affected efforts to repeal/replace the ACA. Then, explain how analyses of the voters views may affect decisions by legislative leaders in recommending or positioning national policies (e.g., Congress’ decisions impacting Medicare or Medicaid). Remember, the number one job of a legislator is to be re-elected. Please check your discussion grading rubric to ensure your responses meet the criteria.
Sample Solution
Write an essay discussing the following question:
What are some of the considerations for a legislator when considering healthcare policy/legislation and how does this affect their decision making?
The primary consideration for any legislator when addressing healthcare policy or legislation is reelection. In order to be reelected, legislators must ensure that their constituents are satisfied with the policies they have implemented. This means that they must consider not only the economic cost of a piece of legislation, but also its political cost in terms of votes. If voters feel as though a particular policy will not benefit them directly or if it causes too much disruption in their lives, then they may choose to vote against the legislator responsible for passing such measures.
Sample Solution
Write an essay discussing the following question:
What are some of the considerations for a legislator when considering healthcare policy/legislation and how does this affect their decision making?
The primary consideration for any legislator when addressing healthcare policy or legislation is reelection. In order to be reelected, legislators must ensure that their constituents are satisfied with the policies they have implemented. This means that they must consider not only the economic cost of a piece of legislation, but also its political cost in terms of votes. If voters feel as though a particular policy will not benefit them directly or if it causes too much disruption in their lives, then they may choose to vote against the legislator responsible for passing such measures.
