2. Field experience log: Health policy, politics and perspectives
This policy focuses on the creation, implementation, and evaluation by government of strategies that improve healthcare access and quality. Because of its complexity, the current system can have significant consequences for healthcare delivery. The current system is a significant contributor to rising healthcare costs because payers shift the costs from patients with chronic diseases (e.g.) onto those who use less of these services (e.g., healthy people).
It can result in a misalignment of resources which may lead to reduced access or worsening outcomes for certain populations. Consolidations between providers and insurers can reduce competition and make it harder for consumers to choose. This creates monopolies and oligopolies that have higher prices but do not necessarily result in better care or outcomes. So, it is important that health policies promote fairness as well as balance competing stakeholder interest so everyone has equal access to basic services.