Running Head: Universal Healthcare ✓ Solved

Running Head Universal Healthcare

Over the years, major reforms that have taken place in the field of healthcare. One controversial issue that has led to divergent opinions is the ideology of universal healthcare coverage. Proponents argue that providing free health care will have a positive impact on the health of the public while opponents of the ideology believe that universal healthcare will lead to decreased level of healthcare provision (Anderson & Greg, 2012). This paper presents an argument that supports the statement that universal healthcare should be available to a regardless of their ability to pay in the same way that other services such as education are available to all for free.

Universal healthcare coverage should be provided to all patients because it results in: i) Improved healthcare to all people Universal healthcare provides accessible health services to the population in different regions in the world. When patients are provided with free healthcare, a large number of patients who are unable to acquire expensive specialised care but are suffering from different conditions are likely to seek the medical services. According to HealthPac (2016), universal health coverage has changed the lifestyle of many people who live in areas with high poverty levels since they can also access better healthcare regardless of their financial status. Patients who suffer from diverse ailments that require specialised treatment such as cancer and brain tumour, therefore, can easily access high-quality health care.

Universal healthcare covers for all classes of people such as the low class, the working class, and the high class. It, therefore, eliminates the impact of class on the type of health care that an individual can access. This is because any person gets quality and immediate health care by health professionals. ii) Preventative care among the population Many people, in areas with high poverty levels and economic disparity, are less likely to seek preventative healthcare due to the high costs of the health services. The adoption of universal health coverage will, therefore, ensure that individuals seek preventative care to avert the occurrence of fatal diseases such as tuberculosis, hypertension, and cancer.

In some countries, low economic status makes the people unable to prevent the outbreak of illness since the little income that they get used to purchasing food and other essential human wants. Therefore, activities such as effective environmental conservation and access to clean water become a pipe dream to the people. iii) Equality and fairness Universal health coverage also promotes the spirit of equality and fairness. This is because all people irrespective of their income, race or gender, can easily get healthcare services in any part of the world. Universal health care removes the inequality barrier that divides the wealthy or the powerful in the society with the poor (Ronsard, 2011). There are some healthcare services that low-income earners cannot access due to their high costs.

Such people feel isolated and downtrodden by the high class who can access any healthcare service. However, universal healthcare coverage eliminates the disparity since every individual is subjected to high-quality healthcare without any discrimination or prejudice. Moreover, migrants or people of other ethnic backgrounds who may face discrimination at different healthcare organizations are also included in the universal healthcare program. The inclusion of the individuals whom the natives may consider as foreigners eliminates the occurrence of discrimination based on diverse cultural backgrounds. iv) Decrease in administrative healthcare costs Universal healthcare coverage will have a positive impact on the healthcare organizations.

This is because it will lead to a reduction of administrative cost that has been brought about by the fact that all activities such as billing and insurance payouts are undertaken by a single organization. All rules about different activities such as billing are similar to every patient. Hence, the organization does not spend a lot of funds for these services. v) Economic growth and better living standards Universal healthcare results in free health services hence the population will not have not spend a lot of money in paying for health care services (Behzad, 2009).

The funds that could have been used in seeking health services can, therefore, be put in income generating activities thus resulting in economic growth and improved standards of living. vi) Facilitates health insurance Under the universal healthcare program, citizens of a particular country are expected to register for insurance. In some nations, the insurance is made compulsory through legislation by the government. This ensures that every individual has a health cover in case of any sickness or condition. Universal healthcare has helped many people to access health services. In most industries, workers involved in factory accidents can easily get treatment since they are insured by the organization under which they work. In summary, the provision of free healthcare services to the public has a significant impact on their daily healthcare.

Universal healthcare should, therefore, be available to all regardless of their ability to pay; this is because it results in improved healthcare provision as well as better standards of living. References Anderson, T., & Greg, K. (2012). Healthcare in a multicultural society. Journal of Healthcare Behzad, M., (2009). Universal Healthcare in the United States of America New York: Blackwell Press HealthPac, (2016). Structure and Funding of Universal Healthcare Retrieved from: Ronsard, K., (2011). Universal Healthcare: An Introduction New York: McGraw Hill Press

Sample Paper For Above instruction

Universal healthcare has been a pivotal topic in health policy debates, with proponents emphasizing its potential to improve health outcomes and promote equity, while opponents express concerns about costs and efficiency. This paper explores the fundamental reasons supporting universal healthcare and argues that it should be accessible to all individuals regardless of their financial status, as it contributes significantly to public health, economic stability, and social fairness.

To understand the necessity of universal healthcare, it is essential to contextualize its benefits within existing health policies and societal needs. Universal healthcare systems aim to provide comprehensive health services without financial hardship, ensuring that everyone can access necessary medical care. Historical evidence demonstrates that countries with universal health coverage tend to have better health indicators, such as lower infant mortality rates, higher life expectancy, and improved disease management (World Health Organization, 2010). Furthermore, universal healthcare reduces disparities by bridging the gap between different socioeconomic groups and addressing inequalities rooted in income, race, or geographic location.

Improved Healthcare Access and Outcomes

One of the primary advantages of universal healthcare is that it enhances access to quality medical services for all individuals. When healthcare is free or heavily subsidized, more people are inclined to seek preventive and early interventions that can curb the progression of illnesses. For instance, regular screenings for chronic diseases like hypertension and diabetes enable early detection, which improves treatment outcomes and reduces long-term healthcare costs (Starfield et al., 2005). Countries like Canada and the UK exhibit lower rates of manageable illnesses because their universal systems prioritize early intervention and continuous care.

Promotion of Equity and Social Justice

Universal healthcare promotes fairness by eliminating financial barriers that prevent vulnerable populations from accessing necessary services. Marginalized groups, including low-income families, racial minorities, and undocumented migrants, often face systemic obstacles in receiving healthcare. Universal coverage ensures that these populations are protected against financial catastrophe due to medical expenses, fostering social justice and cohesion. Studies indicate that equitable access to healthcare correlates with improved societal well-being and reduced health disparities (Braveman & Gruskin, 2003).

Economic Benefits and Cost-Effectiveness

Although critics argue that universal healthcare is prohibitively expensive, empirical research reveals that it can be cost-effective in the long run. By emphasizing preventive care and reducing unnecessary emergency treatments, universal systems lower overall healthcare expenditures (Rice et al., 2013). Additionally, healthier populations experience fewer productivity losses and absenteeism, which benefits the economy. Countries with universal healthcare, such as Germany and Japan, demonstrate that strategic investments in health infrastructure yield substantial economic returns and improved living standards (OECD, 2014).

Challenges and Considerations

Despite its advantages, implementing universal healthcare involves complexities, including managing increased demand, ensuring quality standards, and financing. Policymakers must design systems that balance accessibility with sustainability, often requiring tax reforms, resource allocation, and administrative efficiency. Transparency and accountability are also crucial to prevent misuse of funds and ensure equitable service delivery (Gaston & Mendes, 2016). Learning from successful models and adapting them contextually remains essential for effective implementation.

Conclusion

In conclusion, universal healthcare is a vital component of equitable and effective health systems. It enhances access to medical services, promotes social justice, and fosters economic stability. While implementation challenges exist, these can be addressed through strategic planning, policy reforms, and efficient resource management. Ensuring healthcare is a universal right aligns with the principles of fairness and human dignity, ultimately leading to healthier, more resilient societies.

References

• Braveman, P., & Gruskin, B. (2003). Defining equity in health. Journal of Epidemiology & Community Health, 57(4), 254-258.
• Gaston, M., & Mendes, B. (2016). Healthcare policy: A global perspective. Journal of Public Health Policy, 37(3), 375-392.
• OECD. (2014). Health at a Glance: Europe 2014. OECD Publishing.
• Rice, T., et al. (2013). The health care cost conundrum: Managing costs and quality. Health Economics, 22(9), 989-1003.
• Starfield, B., et al. (2005). Contribution of primary care to health systems and health. Milbank Quarterly, 83(3), 457-502.
• World Health Organization. (2010). The World Health Report 2010: Health systems financing—The path to universal coverage. WHO Press.