BUS FPX 3026 Assessment 5 Analyzing and Recommending Health Care System Reform Options BUS-FPX3026 Foundations and Future of Health Care Delivery Management
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Introduction
The United States, despite being one of the wealthiest nations, continues to face significant challenges regarding health care coverage. Millions of individuals remain uninsured (Niles, 2018). In contrast, several countries have adopted Universal Health Care Coverage (UHC), providing a broad array of benefits to their citizens, albeit with certain limitations. This paper aims to compare the current health care system in the U.S. with those in other Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) countries, focusing on their structures, approaches, and key concepts. Additionally, recommendations for reforming the U.S. health care system will be proposed, and the implications of these changes for health care managers and the necessary skills required to manage the transition will be explored.
Comparison of U.S. and Other OECD Country Health Care Systems
The U.S. health care system consists of various public and private payors, including Medicare, Medicaid, the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP), Veterans Affairs, Tricare, employer-sponsored insurance, private health insurance, and a significant uninsured population (World Health Organization [WHO], n.d.). The Affordable Care Act (ACA), enacted in 2010, aimed to expand health care coverage but faced several implementation challenges, such as issues with web-based exchanges and states opting out of Medicaid expansion (WHO, n.d.). The subsequent efforts by the Trump administration to dismantle the ACA further exacerbated the challenges (Sanger-Katz, 2017).
In comparison, China provides universal health care coverage primarily funded by the central government, supplemented by private insurance plans to cover the gaps (International Health Care System Profiles [IHSP], n.d.). France’s Statutory Health Insurance (SHI) system also provides universal coverage, largely funded through taxes, and offers additional private insurance for services not covered by the public system. Notably, France includes free dental and vision care for eligible citizens (IHSP, n.d.).
Similarities and Differences in Health Care Systems’ Structures, Approaches, and Concepts
While the U.S., China, and France all offer some form of health insurance, their approaches vary considerably. France’s system is the most comprehensive, with universal coverage funded mainly through taxation. China is working to expand private insurance coverage, which now serves a large portion of its population (IHSP, n.d.). The U.S., however, still has a substantial uninsured and underinsured population, leading to significant disparities in access to care (Collins, Bhupal, & Doty, 2019).
The health care systems in all three countries cover essential services such as hospitalization, emergency care, outpatient services, specialist visits, diagnostic procedures, prescription drugs, and mental health care. However, out-of-pocket costs for services like vision and dental care are more common in the U.S. and China compared to France, where such services are often less costly (IHSP, n.d.).
Recommended Changes to Reform the U.S. Health Care System
To improve its health care system, the U.S. can take cues from France’s universal coverage model. Expanding comprehensive coverage, especially for critical areas like cancer care, and enforcing strict quality standards for providers would significantly benefit U.S. patients (Shapiro, 2008). Additionally, negotiating lower drug prices and implementing pharmaceutical price regulations are essential steps toward reducing the overall cost of care in the U.S.
Impacts of Proposed Changes on Health Care Managers and Required Skills
For health care managers, the proposed reforms would require effective communication of their organization’s mission and vision during periods of change. They would need to ensure that all staff members understand and support these changes. Managers must also be well-versed in health care laws, regulations, and accreditation standards to successfully implement reforms. Skills such as leadership, regulatory knowledge, and effective communication will be essential for managing the proposed changes within health care organizations.
Conclusion
Access to affordable health care is a fundamental responsibility for any nation. While the U.S. boasts advanced medical technologies and treatments, affordability remains a critical issue. Countries like France and China offer valuable insights into providing universal health care coverage. Reforming the U.S. health care system, especially in areas like cancer care, could lead to better patient outcomes. Health care leaders must possess the necessary management