Health Care Delivery Systems in the United States

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Health Care Delivery Systems

1. How have demographic changes and cultural values influenced the evolution of health care delivery systems in the United States?

The United States is in the midst of a demographic transformation that is changing the cultural landscape of the nation. Immigration which started in the 1960's is still on the rise. By 2050, it is projected that approximately one-third of the U.S population will soon become the collective majority. With this changing demographics however, so have and the manner in which we once delivered care. Socio-cultural factors including but not limited to this issue are factors such as economic status, education, health insurance status, and other social determinants are critical, to health care decisions, and must be considered in such context (DHHS, 2011).

Furthermore, as they influence life span, health, illness and disease, disease risks, access to and quality of care. They cannot be ignored. IN order for us to live healthier life, the health disparities which is more prevalent in immigrant, and ethnic and racial minority populations in the United States should be illuminated, at the least, must be reduced significantly. For example, between 2010 and 2030, cancer incidence among minority populations is expected to ted to nearly double; increased by approximately thirty five percent in the non-Hispanic white population (DHHS, 2011).

Disadvantaged, underserved, predominantly minority populations have been and continue to be plagued and disproportionately affected by certain diseases, such as certain cancers, which for reasons such as lack of insurance are often diagnosed at later stages, thus less positive outcomes and survival rates. The call is an urgent and radical one to change the face of health care in keeping with the changing demographics. In order to address such pressing and troubling concerns, efforts must be energized.

2. Does the United States currently use a medical model or wellness model or both? Briefly explain your position. What factors have led to using these models?

The Wellness model as it relates to health is the pursuit of a healthy and balanced lifestyle, involving body, mind, and spirit. This usually results in an overall feeling and state of well-being. I would say that while there is more emphasis towards the ...