We may earn an affiliate commission when you visit our partners.

United States Health Policy

John McDonough

4.5

Based on 2 ratings

, see reviews

John McDonough

Health care in America can be complicated. Most Americans might not fully understand the basics of the U.S. health care system or health care policies such as the Affordable Care Act (ACA). Featuring some of the nation’s foremost teachers and thought leaders, this course provides students with a basic and thorough understanding of the U.S. health care system focusing on access, quality of care, and costs. Students will learn how the system is structured, how care is organized, delivered, and financed, and the role of the Affordable Care Act in the health care system. Students will understand the U.S. health policy-making structure process at the federal, state, and local levels. Students who complete this course will be able to interpret current controversies around US health policy and develop informed opinions on potential future policy developments.

Please note that the content in this course was created prior to the implementation of the ACA.

Enroll now

What's inside

Learning objectives

How the u.s. health care system is organized, financed, and governed
How to give examples of key system stakeholders and participants, public and private
How to describe the u.s. health care system's essential building blocks, including medicare, medicaid, private health insurance, medical care delivery, pharmaceuticals, long-term care, mental health, oral health, and public health

Interpret contemporary policy controversies pertaining to each key u.s. health care system building block
Understand the basic components of the affordable care act
Identify challenges associated with reforming the u.s. health care system

How the u.s. health care system is organized, financed, and governed
How to give examples of key system stakeholders and participants, public and private
How to describe the u.s. health care system's essential building blocks, including medicare, medicaid, private health insurance, medical care delivery, pharmaceuticals, long-term care, mental health, oral health, and public health
Interpret contemporary policy controversies pertaining to each key u.s. health care system building block
Understand the basic components of the affordable care act
Identify challenges associated with reforming the u.s. health care system

Traffic lights

Read about what's good

what should give you pause

and possible dealbreakers

U.S. Health Policy and Politics: A Primer

Surveys the U.S. health care system, focusing on access, quality of care, and costs

Explains how the system is structured, how care is organized, delivered, and financed

Examines the role of the Affordable Care Act in the health care system

Provides an understanding of the U.S. health policy-making structure process at various levels

Suitable for individuals seeking a basic understanding of the U.S. health care system and policies

Save this course

Create your own learning path. Save this course to your list so you can find it easily later.

Save

Reviews summary

Us health policy: foundational overview

According to learners, this course provides a solid foundation and a comprehensive overview of the US healthcare system. Reviewers frequently praise the clear lectures and knowledgeable instructors from Harvard University, finding the material on Medicare, Medicaid, private insurance, and the policy-making process well-explained and easy to follow. However, a significant point noted is that the course content was created prior to the full implementation of the ACA (Affordable Care Act). This means that while the fundamental structures and historical context are considered highly valuable, some aspects feel outdated and may require learners to seek additional, more current resources to fully understand today's health policy landscape. Despite this limitation, many feel it is a valuable starting point, especially for those new to the field.

Covers essential components like Medicare, Medicaid.

"I learned so much about Medicare, Medicaid, private insurance, and how policies are made."

"Covers all the main components: Medicare, Medicaid, private insurance."

"Covers the essential building blocks of US healthcare."

"The focus on access, quality, and cost is well done."

Lectures are clear, instructors explain well.

"The lectures were clear and the instructors knowledgeable."

"Brilliant course... The instructors are excellent, and the way they explain complex topics is superb."

"The lectures are well-structured and easy to follow."

"The modules on Medicare and Medicaid were incredibly clear."

Provides a strong base for understanding US healthcare.

"A really solid introduction to the complexities of US health policy."

"Excellent course! Provides a comprehensive overview of the US healthcare system."

"Fantastic introduction! This course gave me the framework I needed to understand healthcare in the US."

"Absolutely essential course for anyone wanting to understand US healthcare basics."

"A good starting point for understanding the system."

"For understanding the fundamentals, it's quite effective."

Created pre-ACA, lacks current policy relevance.

"The only drawback is the note that content was created before full ACA implementation; while the fundamentals are still relevant, some sections felt a little less current..."

"The material being pre-ACA is a significant issue... Needs a major update."

"Frankly, parts of this course feel outdated... Disappointed it hasn't been updated."

"The lack of updates post-ACA implementation makes it significantly less useful for understanding the current policy environment..."

"Completely outdated... A waste of time if you need to understand current US health policy issues."

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in United States Health Policy with these activities:

Organize and Review Course Resources

Show steps

Staying organized is paramount to academic achievement. Diligently organizing and reviewing course materials allows you to easily access and retain information, enhancing your understanding of the course content.

Show steps

Create a system for organizing notes, assignments, and other materials
Regularly review your organized materials to reinforce learning

Review the Basics of Health Care

Show steps

By reviewing the fundamental tenets of America's health care ecosystem, you can build a stronger basis upon which future learning can take form.

Show steps

Reread relevant sections of assigned textbook
Review online resources from credible sources
Attend an online webinar on health care basics

Attend office hours with professor and TAs

Show steps

Discuss course topics with instructors and clarify concepts

Show steps

Six other activities

Expand to see all activities and additional details

Show all nine activities

Understanding the Structure of the US Health Care System

Show steps

Grasping the intricacy of America's health care architecture is critical for navigating the complexities of this course. Guided tutorials offer a structured approach to gaining this knowledge.

Browse courses on Health Care Delivery

Show steps

Enroll in an online tutorial on the US health care system
Follow along with the tutorial videos and readings
Complete the practice exercises and quizzes

Summarize Key Health Care Policies

Show steps

Creating a concise summary of consequential health care policies aids in solidifying your grasp of their history and impact. This exercise strengthens your analytical and communication skills.

Show steps

Review course materials on key health care policies
Identify the main points and arguments of each policy
Write a 500-word summary that synthesizes your findings

Discuss Challenges and Reforms in the US Health Care System

Show steps

Engaging in discussions with peers allows you to explore diverse perspectives on health care challenges and potential reforms. This collaborative learning environment fosters critical thinking and problem-solving.

Browse courses on Health Care Reform

Show steps

Join an online discussion forum or study group
Participate in discussions on health care challenges and reforms
Share your own insights and perspectives

Assess US Health Policy Controversies

Show steps

Engaging in practice drills on US health policy controversies provides an opportunity to test your understanding, identify areas for improvement, and develop critical thinking skills in a controlled environment.

Browse courses on Health Care Policy

Show steps

Identify key health policy controversies from course materials
Research different perspectives on each controversy
Complete practice exercises and quizzes to assess your understanding

Attend a Health Care Policy Workshop

Show steps

Attending a health care policy workshop provides an immersive opportunity to interact with experts, engage in discussions, and gain practical insights into the complexities of health care policy.

Browse courses on Health Policy

Show steps

Research upcoming health care policy workshops
Attend a workshop that aligns with your interests
Actively participate in discussions and Q&A sessions

Tutor or Mentor Students in Health Care

Show steps

Tutoring or mentoring others in health care is an excellent way to reinforce your knowledge, develop your communication skills, and make a positive impact on the next generation of health care professionals.

Browse courses on Health Education

Show steps

Connect with organizations or schools that offer health care tutoring or mentoring
Volunteer your time to tutor or mentor students
Prepare lesson plans and activities that align with the students' needs

Career center

Learners who complete United States Health Policy will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

Health Policy Analyst

Health Policy Analysts research, analyze, and develop policies that affect the health of the public. They work with government agencies, healthcare providers, and other stakeholders to identify and address healthcare issues. This course will provide Health Policy Analysts with a comprehensive understanding of the U.S. health care system, as well as the policy-making process at the federal, state, and local levels. It will also help them develop the skills needed to analyze and interpret health policy data, and to communicate their findings to policymakers and the public.

See salaries and explore the career path for Health Policy Analyst

Healthcare Administrator

Healthcare Administrators oversee the day-to-day operations of healthcare facilities, ensuring that they run smoothly and efficiently. They work closely with medical staff, patients, and insurance companies to provide quality care while managing costs. This course can help Healthcare Administrators develop a deep understanding of the U.S. healthcare system, including its organization, financing, and governance. It will also provide them with insights into key policy controversies and challenges facing the system, which will be invaluable in their role as decision-makers.

See salaries and explore the career path for Healthcare Administrator

Healthcare Consultant

Healthcare Consultants provide advice and guidance to healthcare organizations on a variety of issues, including strategy, operations, and finance. They work with clients to identify and solve problems, and to improve the quality and efficiency of care. This course can help Healthcare Consultants develop a deep understanding of the U.S. healthcare system, including its organization, financing, and governance. It will also provide them with insights into key policy controversies and challenges facing the system, which will be invaluable in their role as advisors to healthcare organizations.

See salaries and explore the career path for Healthcare Consultant

Medical Writer

Medical Writers create and edit written materials about medical and health-related topics for a variety of audiences, including patients, healthcare professionals, and the general public. They work with medical experts to ensure that the information they produce is accurate, clear, and engaging. This course can help Medical Writers develop a strong understanding of the U.S. healthcare system, as well as the key policy issues and controversies facing the system. It will also provide them with the skills needed to translate complex medical information into clear and concise writing.

See salaries and explore the career path for Medical Writer

Public Health Educator

Public Health Educators develop and implement educational programs to promote health and prevent disease. They work with communities, schools, and other organizations to raise awareness about health issues and to encourage healthy behaviors. This course can help Public Health Educators develop a deep understanding of the U.S. healthcare system, as well as the key policy issues and controversies facing the system. It will also provide them with the skills needed to develop and evaluate effective health education programs.

See salaries and explore the career path for Public Health Educator

Health Insurance Agent

Health Insurance Agents help individuals and businesses find and enroll in health insurance plans that meet their needs. They work with clients to compare plans, understand their coverage options, and make informed decisions about their health insurance. This course will provide Health Insurance Agents with a comprehensive understanding of the U.S. health care system, including its organization, financing, and governance. It will also help them develop the skills needed to explain complex health insurance concepts to clients and to help them find the best plans for their needs.

See salaries and explore the career path for Health Insurance Agent

Healthcare Lobbyist

Healthcare Lobbyists represent the interests of healthcare organizations before government agencies and policymakers. They work to influence legislation and regulations that affect the healthcare industry. This course will provide Healthcare Lobbyists with a deep understanding of the U.S. healthcare system, as well as the policy-making process at the federal, state, and local levels. It will also help them develop the skills needed to effectively advocate for their clients' interests.

See salaries and explore the career path for Healthcare Lobbyist

Patient Advocate

Patient Advocates assist patients with navigating the healthcare system and ensuring that they receive the best possible care. They work with patients to understand their rights, communicate with their healthcare providers, and file appeals or grievances. This course can help Patient Advocates develop a deep understanding of the U.S. healthcare system, including its organization, financing, and governance. It will also provide them with insights into key policy controversies and challenges facing the system, which will be invaluable in their role as advocates for patients.

See salaries and explore the career path for Patient Advocate

Health Care Lawyer

Health Care Lawyers specialize in legal issues related to healthcare. They work with healthcare providers, insurers, and patients to navigate the complex legal landscape of the healthcare industry. This course may be useful to Health Care Lawyers as it will provide them with a deeper understanding of the U.S. healthcare system, including its organization, financing, and governance. It will also help them develop the skills needed to effectively advise clients on healthcare-related legal issues.

See salaries and explore the career path for Health Care Lawyer

Social Worker

Social Workers help people navigate the social and economic challenges they face. They work with individuals, families, and communities to provide support, counseling, and advocacy. This course may be useful to Social Workers as it will provide them with a deeper understanding of the U.S. healthcare system, including its organization, financing, and governance. It will also help them develop the skills needed to effectively advocate for clients' access to healthcare and other social services.

See salaries and explore the career path for Social Worker

Nurse

Nurses provide direct patient care and work with other healthcare professionals to develop and implement treatment plans. This course may be useful to Nurses as it will provide them with a deeper understanding of the U.S. healthcare system, including its organization, financing, and governance. It will also help them develop the skills needed to effectively advocate for patients and to work as part of a healthcare team.

See salaries and explore the career path for Nurse

Physician

Physicians diagnose and treat patients' illnesses and injuries. They work with other healthcare professionals to develop and implement treatment plans. This course may be useful to Physicians as it will provide them with a deeper understanding of the U.S. healthcare system, including its organization, financing, and governance. It will also help them develop the skills needed to effectively advocate for patients and to work as part of a healthcare team.

See salaries and explore the career path for Physician

Pharmacist

Pharmacists dispense medications and provide advice on their use. They work with other healthcare professionals to ensure that patients are taking their medications safely and effectively. This course may be useful to Pharmacists as it will provide them with a deeper understanding of the U.S. healthcare system, including its organization, financing, and governance. It will also help them develop the skills needed to effectively advocate for patients and to work as part of a healthcare team.

See salaries and explore the career path for Pharmacist

Dentist

Dentists diagnose and treat problems with teeth and gums. They work with other healthcare professionals to ensure that patients have healthy mouths. This course may be useful to Dentists as it will provide them with a deeper understanding of the U.S. healthcare system, including its organization, financing, and governance. It will also help them develop the skills needed to effectively advocate for patients and to work as part of a healthcare team.

See salaries and explore the career path for Dentist

Chiropractor

Chiropractors diagnose and treat neuromusculoskeletal conditions. They use spinal adjustments and other techniques to relieve pain and improve function. This course may be useful to Chiropractors as it will provide them with a deeper understanding of the U.S. healthcare system, including its organization, financing, and governance. It will also help them develop the skills needed to effectively advocate for patients and to work as part of a healthcare team.

See salaries and explore the career path for Chiropractor

Reading list

We've selected 27 books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in United States Health Policy.

Which Country Has the World's Best Health Care?

Save

Provides a clear and concise explanation of the Affordable Care Act and its implications for the U.S. health care system. It is written by one of the architects of the ACA, which lends it a unique perspective.

United States Health Policy

What's inside

Learning objectives

Traffic lights

Save this course

Reviews summary

Us health policy: foundational overview

Activities

Career center

Reading list

Share

Similar courses

edX Buyer Protection & Guarantee

Free Audit Track Available

14-Day Full Refund Window

Verified Academic & Industry Partner