WhatsApp Number: +1(249) 265-0080
Affordable Care Act
Post a description of the health policy you selected and a brief background for the problem or issue being addressed. Which social determinant most affects this policy? Explain whether you believe there is an evidence base to support the proposed policy and explain why. Be specific and provide examples.
Check our essay writing services here
Affordable Care Act
For this discussion, I will focus on the Affordable Care Act (ACA), a health policy in the United States aimed at expanding healthcare coverage and improving the quality of care.
Description of the Policy: The ACA, also known as Obamacare, was enacted in 2010 to increase access to healthcare for Americans. Key provisions include the establishment of health insurance exchanges, expansion of Medicaid in participating states, mandates for health insurance coverage, and protections for people with pre-existing conditions. The policy aimed to reduce the number of uninsured individuals, make healthcare more affordable, and promote preventive care. One of the most notable provisions was the requirement for health insurance plans to cover a range of essential health benefits, including preventive services, maternity care, mental health services, and chronic disease management.
Background of the Problem: Before the ACA, a significant number of Americans were uninsured, leading to higher health disparities, poorer health outcomes, and financial strain for both individuals and the healthcare system. Many individuals could not afford coverage or were denied insurance due to pre-existing conditions. Healthcare costs were a major issue for individuals and families, and the policy aimed to address these systemic issues.
Social Determinant Affecting the Policy: The most significant social determinant influencing this policy is socioeconomic status. Many individuals who were uninsured or underinsured were from lower-income households. These groups faced challenges in accessing affordable healthcare and were at a higher risk for poor health outcomes due to limited access to preventive care, early diagnosis, and treatment. The ACA specifically aimed to address the needs of these individuals by offering subsidies for insurance coverage, expanding Medicaid eligibility, and reducing out-of-pocket costs.
Evidence Base to Support the Policy: There is evidence supporting the ACA’s effectiveness in reducing the number of…