Analyze the benefits and drawbacks of private and public sources of finance for the care of vulnerable persons.

This week students will:

1. Analyze the benefits and drawbacks of private and public sources of finance for the care of vulnerable persons.
2. Propose alternative methods of paying for healthcare for those who are underinsured or uninsured.
3. Analyze various barriers to accessing health services, while researching avenues to reduce or eliminate barriers.

Introduction

Welcome to Week Three! Thus far, we’ve covered a fair amount of ground in our analysis of vulnerable populations. Last week, we explored the continuum of care approach in an effort to better understand the varying health care need levels of vulnerable populations. This week, we will tackle the financial aspects associated with paying for this care; specifically, what payment options exist for vulnerable populations. When public or private funds are unavailable, alternative options may exist for individuals without health insurance. We’ll consider some of these issues as we delve into this week’s discussion forums. Your second written assignment for the course will give you an opportunity to assess barriers to health care access related to your selected group, in addition to considering some options to reduce or eliminate such barriers.

Required Resources

Required Text

1. 1. Burkholder, D. M., & Nash, N. B.  (2013). Special populations in health care.  San Diego, CA: Bridgepoint Education, Inc.

• Chapter 5: Paying for Health Care
  • This chapter explores funding of health care for vulnerable people.
• Chapter 6: Accessing Health Care
  • This chapter delves into the barriers in accessing health care.