How to solve

International Healthcare Issues Discussion

Nursing Assignment Help

Introduction: For this assignment, we will compare and contrast two regions in terms of their healthcare initiatives and challenges. By examining the efforts of these regions, we can gain insights into the similarities and differences in their approaches to addressing healthcare needs. Utilizing two external sources, we will summarize the key initiatives and challenges of each region and delve into why they are similar or different in their efforts.

Region 1: United States

The United States has a complex healthcare system with a mix of private and public players. One key initiative in the US is the Affordable Care Act (ACA), which aimed to improve access to healthcare services for millions of Americans. It introduced health insurance reforms, expanding coverage options and enhancing consumer protections. Another major initiative is the push towards value-based care, which focuses on rewarding healthcare providers based on the quality and outcomes of care, rather than the volume of services provided.

However, the US faces various challenges in its healthcare system. One key challenge is the high cost of healthcare, resulting in disparities in access and affordability. Additionally, there are ongoing concerns related to insurance coverage gaps and inadequate access to primary care, particularly in rural areas. The fragmented nature of the healthcare system, with multiple payers and providers, also poses challenges in coordinating care and ensuring continuity.

Region 2: Canada

Canada has a publicly funded universal healthcare system. The key initiative in Canada is the Canada Health Act, which sets out the principles of universality, accessibility, comprehensiveness, portability, and public administration. This ensures that all Canadian residents have access to medically necessary hospital and physician services, regardless of their ability to pay.

One of the challenges faced by Canada’s healthcare system is wait times for specialized services. While access to primary care is generally good, there can be delays for elective procedures and specialized care. The aging population is also a challenge, as it puts pressure on healthcare resources and requires innovative approaches to meet the increasing demand. Additionally, the vast geographic size of Canada creates challenges in delivering healthcare services to remote and rural areas.

Similarities and Differences:

Both the United States and Canada are facing the challenge of providing affordable and accessible healthcare to their populations. Both regions have implemented initiatives to improve access, such as the ACA in the US and the Canada Health Act in Canada. However, the two regions differ in their approaches.

The US relies heavily on private insurance and a market-based system, while Canada’s healthcare system is publicly funded. This difference in financing mechanisms leads to variations in coverage and costs. The US also places a greater emphasis on competition and innovation, which can drive advancements in medical technology but can also result in higher costs.

Despite these differences, both regions are striving to improve healthcare outcomes, enhance access, and address disparities. They are also both grappling with the challenges posed by an aging population and the need for efficient resource allocation.

Sources:

1. Smith, S., & Sutherland, J. M. (2020). Health systems in transition: Canada. Copenhagen, Denmark: European Observatory on Health Systems and Policies.

2. Blendon, R. J., Benson, J. M., & SteelFisher, G. K. (2018). The public and the doctors believe the US health care system should be fundamentally changed. Health Affairs, 37(3), 316-324.