Module 4 - Background In International And Comparative Healt ✓ Solved
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Module 4 - Background INTERNATIONAL AND COMPARATIVE HEALTH
Module 4 - Background INTERNATIONAL AND COMPARATIVE HEALTH POLICY: OPPORTUNITIES AND LESSONS FOR THE UNITED STATES
Required Reading: Chan, K. (2009). Introduction to comparative health systems. Global Health Education System. Retrieved from Saltman, R. B. (2012). The role of comparative health studies for policy learning. Health Economics, Policy, and Law. 7 (1). 11-13. Available in the Trident Online Library. Schneider, E. C., Sarnak, D. O., Squires, D., Shar, A., & Doty, M. M. (2017). Mirror, mirror 2017: International comparison reflects flaws and opportunities for better U.S. health care. Commonwealth Fund. Retrieved from: Shi, L. (2014). International health policymaking. In Introduction to health policy , pp. 74-96. Chicago: Health Administration Press. Available in the Trident Online Library.
Paper For Above Instructions
The landscape of health policy in the United States has been shaped by numerous factors, including comparative health studies that offer insights into the healthcare systems of other nations. This paper examines the opportunities and lessons that can be gleaned from international and comparative health policy, with a focus on how these lessons could inform U.S. health policy reform efforts.
1. Introduction to Comparative Health Systems
Comparative health systems research is an essential tool for policymakers who strive for effective healthcare solutions. Chan (2009) highlights that different health systems can provide diverse perspectives and methodologies for managing public health challenges. In the case of the United States, comparative studies can identify best practices from countries that have successfully managed healthcare delivery while controlling costs.
2. Importance of Policy Learning
According to Saltman (2012), the role of comparative health studies is pivotal in contributing to policy learning. Learning from successful international models can help U.S. policymakers identify actionable strategies that improve healthcare outcomes. For instance, the National Health Service (NHS) in the United Kingdom exemplifies a model of accessing health services that could inform reforms in the U.S. system, particularly around issues of universal healthcare access and cost control.
3. Insights from the Commonwealth Fund
The Commonwealth Fund's study, "Mirror, Mirror 2017," provides a comprehensive analysis of how the U.S. healthcare system compares with those of 11 other countries (Schneider et al., 2017). The study revealed that while the U.S. spends more on healthcare, it often does not achieve better outcomes. For instance, life expectancy and preventable deaths are areas where the U.S. lags behind its peers. Lessons from this comparative analysis underline the need for a more efficient allocation of resources and targeted interventions for improved health outcomes.
4. International Health Policymaking
Shi (2014) emphasizes the complexity of international health policymaking and its relevance to the U.S. context. Analyzing the policy frameworks of other nations allows policymakers to understand the implications of regulatory environments, financing mechanisms, and healthcare delivery models. For example, countries such as Sweden and Switzerland showcase different financing models that provide insights into the effectiveness of tax-funded versus multi-payer schemes.
5. Addressing Obesity and Chronic Illnesses
The U.S. is facing a chronic illness epidemic, particularly concerning obesity, which is linked to a myriad of health issues including diabetes and heart disease. Comparative health studies have shown that countries achieving better health outcomes often implement comprehensive strategies geared towards preventive care and public health education. Implementing similar strategies tailored to the U.S. socio-economic context could significantly impact chronic disease prevalence.
6. Health Equity and Access
Health equity remains a cornerstone of effective health policy. As noted in international comparisons, access to healthcare is often tied to social determinants of health (Shi, 2014). Lessons from countries that prioritize healthcare accessibility—regardless of socioeconomic status—should encourage U.S. policymakers to develop programs that focus on vulnerable populations, ensuring equitable healthcare distribution.
7. Policy Recommendations
Based on the insights derived from comparative health systems, the following recommendations can be made for U.S. policymakers:
- Implement universal healthcare coverage strategies that eliminate financial barriers for patients.
- Focus on preventive care to decrease long-term healthcare costs associated with chronic diseases.
- Adopt successful components of healthcare systems in other countries, such as patient-centered care and integrated care models.
- Invest in health education campaigns that target obesity and promote healthier lifestyles.
8. Conclusion
In conclusion, the exploration of international and comparative health policies offers invaluable lessons for the United States. By integrating successful strategies from other nations, U.S. policymakers can address persistent challenges within the healthcare system, ultimately leading to improved health outcomes for all citizens. The wealth of knowledge derived from comparative studies highlights the importance of a global perspective in developing effective health policies.
References
- Chan, K. (2009). Introduction to comparative health systems. Global Health Education System.
- Saltman, R. B. (2012). The role of comparative health studies for policy learning. Health Economics, Policy, and Law, 7(1), 11-13.
- Schneider, E. C., Sarnak, D. O., Squires, D., Shar, A., & Doty, M. M. (2017). Mirror, mirror 2017: International comparison reflects flaws and opportunities for better U.S. health care. Commonwealth Fund.
- Shi, L. (2014). International health policymaking. In Introduction to health policy (pp. 74-96). Chicago: Health Administration Press.
- Shi, L. (2014). International health policy issues. In Introduction to health policy. Chicago: Health Administration Press.
- World Health Organization. (n.d.). Retrieved from: [insert URL]
- OECD. (2019). Health at a Glance 2019: OECD Indicators. OECD Publishing.
- Reinhardt, U. E. (2016). The economic analysis of health care markets. Health Economics, Policy and Law, 11(3), 307-327.
- Woolhandler, S., & Himmelstein, D. U. (2016). The health care monopoly: Cost and quality problems in the United States. The American Journal of Public Health, 106(1), 44-49.
- OECD. (2020). Health spending. In OECD Health Statistics 2020. OECD Publishing.
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