A Healthy Debate: Healthcare Policy

These flashcards cover key terms and concepts discussed in the lecture on healthcare policy, focusing on legislation, programs, and related issues.

Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act

Legislation signed by President Obama in 2010 aimed at providing affordable health insurance.

Medicare

A federal health insurance program for individuals aged 65 and older and for certain younger people with disabilities.

Medicaid

A joint federal and state program that helps with medical costs for some people with limited income.

Affordable Care Act (ACA)

A comprehensive healthcare reform law enacted in March 2010 that aims to expand health insurance coverage.

CMS

The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services; the federal agency overseeing Medicare and Medicaid.

Telemedicine

The remote diagnosis and treatment of patients through telecommunications technology.

Children’s Health Insurance Program

A program established in 1997 to provide health coverage to uninsured children in families with incomes too high to qualify for Medicaid.

Generational Dependency

A cycle where government support creates long-term reliance on assistance programs.

Healthcare Costs

Expenses associated with medical services, medications, and health insurance.

Medical Debt

Debt that arises when individuals cannot afford to pay for medical services or healthcare.

Government-funded medical assistance programs

Programs funded by the government to provide citizens with access to healthcare services.

Universal Health Coverage

A system that provides healthcare and financial protection to all citizens.

Prescription Drug Costs

The expenses related to obtaining medications prescribed by a healthcare provider.