Introduction to the United States Health Care System

These flashcards cover key concepts and vocabulary from the chapter on the United States health care system.

Health Care System

A network of organizations and individuals that deliver health care services to patients.

Wellness Model

Focuses on the prevention of disease and maintaining well-being.

Epidemiology

The study of the distribution and determinants of health-related states or events in specific populations.

Demographic Data

Statistical data about the characteristics of a population, including age, race, and gender.

Life Expectancy

The average period that a person may expect to live, currently 78.8 years in the U.S.

Preventative Health Care

Health care that aims to prevent diseases rather than treating them.

CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention)

A national public health institute in the United States, focusing on disease control and prevention.

Morbidity

The condition of being diseased or unwell.

Mortality

The state of being subject to death; often expressed as a rate.

Managed Care

A health care delivery system that aims to manage cost, utilization, and quality.

Long Term Care (LTC)

Providing health care services to individuals for an extended period, typically longer than 90 days.

Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act

Legislation passed in March 2010 aimed at expanding health insurance coverage and reducing health care costs in the U.S.

Chronic Disease

A long-lasting condition that can be controlled but not cured.

Public Health Policy

Laws, regulations, and actions designed to promote and protect the health of the population.

Health Care Delivery System

The way in which health care services are delivered to patients.

Third Party Payment

A payment system where a third party, often an insurance company, pays for patients' health care expenses.