Inside U.S. Healthcare Policy

Historical Context of U.S. Healthcare

Provides an overview of the evolution of the U.S. healthcare system, tracing major developments and shifts in healthcare delivery, from early 20th-century reforms to the Affordable Care Act.

International Healthcare Systems Comparison

Explores healthcare systems globally, highlighting differences in structure, financing, and patient outcomes to give students a well-rounded perspective on how other nations approach healthcare challenges.

The Healthcare System: Structure, Functions, and Stakeholders

Students will examine how the U.S. healthcare system is structured, including the roles of hospitals, insurance companies, healthcare providers, and regulatory bodies. Understanding the interdependence of these stakeholders will provide a solid foundation for exploring healthcare management and policy challenges.

The Healthcare Environment: Trends and Pressures

This module will focus on the broader healthcare landscape, including technological advancements, demographic changes, and industry trends. Students will analyze how these external pressures—such as aging populations, digital health technologies, and changing patient needs—affect the development and adjustment of healthcare policies.

Introduction to Management Challenges in Healthcare

Students will get into an introductory exploration of the day-to-day management hurdles faced by healthcare administrators, from staffing issues to financial pressures. This section will introduce the critical thinking skills required to navigate the complexities of managing healthcare institutions in an ever-changing regulatory environment.

The Impact of Healthcare Policies on Operations, Care, and Finance

By exploring both federal and state healthcare policies, students will assess how regulations shape hospital performance, quality of care, and financial sustainability. Case studies on insurance reimbursement, compliance requirements, and resource allocation will offer practical insights into the real-world implications of healthcare policies.

State-Specific Regulations and the Role of Government in Healthcare Marketing

This module emphasizes the regulatory landscape’s variability across states. Students will compare state-specific regulations, particularly in areas like staffing, licensure, and marketing. Additionally, they’ll learn how government entities, like the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), influence healthcare marketing and patient care standards.

CMS Approval Processes and Regulatory Compliance

Understanding the CMS approval process is critical for future healthcare administrators. This topic covers how hospitals and healthcare providers achieve compliance with federal standards, ensuring high-quality patient care and financial reimbursements.