Health Policy Issues An Economic Perspective, Seventh Edition Paul J. Feldstein

Health policy is a crucial aspect of society that impacts the lives of individuals and the allocation of resources. One of the best ways to comprehend the complexities of healthcare is through an economic perspective, which considers the financial self-interest of all involved parties. In the book Health Policy Issues: An Economic Perspective, Seventh Edition by Paul J. Feldstein, readers are offered a comprehensive insight into the forces driving changes in healthcare and the evolution of the US health system.

The book covers a wide range of topics related to the US health system, including the cost of medical care, health insurance, Medicare and Medicaid, healthcare workforce shortages, malpractice reform, pharmaceuticals, and more. With 38 concise chapters, the book integrates information about significant health policies, such as the Affordable Care Act (ACA), which has reshaped the landscape of healthcare in recent years.

The seventh edition of the book has been revised and updated to include current data and research findings. New chapters delve into critical issues such as whether profits in healthcare should be prohibited, the influence of health associations in the political market, and an evaluation of the Affordable Care Act’s achievements in expanding healthcare coverage.

Author Paul J. Feldstein, PhD, brings decades of expertise to the subject, having served as a professor in healthcare administration and authored numerous books and articles on health economics and policy. His work sheds light on the intersection of economics and healthcare policy, offering readers a deeper comprehension of the dynamic healthcare delivery system.

About the Author

Paul J. Feldstein, PhD, is a distinguished professor in the Paul Merage School of Business at the University of California, Irvine. With a background in economics and public health, Dr. Feldstein’s contributions to the field of healthcare management and policy have been widely recognized.

FAQs

1. Why is understanding health policy from an economic perspective important?

Examining healthcare through an economic lens helps in understanding the financial incentives and motivations that drive decisions within the healthcare system. It provides insights into resource allocation, cost-effectiveness, and policy implications.

2. How does the Affordable Care Act impact the healthcare landscape?

The Affordable Care Act, also known as Obamacare, aimed to increase access to healthcare, improve quality, and reduce costs. It introduced provisions such as insurance market reforms, Medicaid expansion, and subsidies for healthcare coverage.

3. What are some of the key challenges facing the US healthcare system?

Challenges in the US healthcare system include rising healthcare costs, disparities in access to care, an aging population, workforce shortages, and the need for innovative approaches to address complex health issues.

Conclusion

Health Policy Issues: An Economic Perspective offers a valuable resource for individuals seeking a deeper understanding of healthcare policy from an economic standpoint. By exploring the intersection of economics and healthcare, readers can gain insights into the intricate dynamics of the healthcare system and the factors influencing policy decisions.