1. Healthcare System in the United States

  WPM:

The United States has a complex healthcare system that is currently in a state of change. The Affordable Care Act (ACA) was signed into law in March 2010 by President Barack Obama, and came into effect in January 2015. The Act provided insurance to 20 to 24 million Americans who previously had no health insurance. This Act has come under a lot of criticism and is currently being reviewed with the intention of repealing it. The new U.S. Congress is planning on replacing the Act with a new one.

Healthcare is very expensive in the United States. Hospital stays for even a few days can cost much more than most Americans can afford. Still there exists a complex network of clinics, offices, medical centers, hospitals, and outpatient facilities that are available to the public. Additionally, there are county hospitals and other low-cost facilities that can provide service to the insured and uninsured alike. Health Maintenance Organizations (HMOs) also provide medical services to the public. These HMOs are usually tied to employer insurance coverage, but individuals can purchase insurance from these types of healthcare providers, too.

Finding a good doctor, one that you feel comfortable with, is the first step in taking command of your healthcare. Once you find a good doctor, he or she can refer you to specialists who can address any special needs you may have. You can find a good doctor anywhere in the U.S. regardless of your insurance plans. All you need is a little patience and persistence.

Most people in the U.S. do not rely on the Affordable Care Act for their healthcare needs. Many employers provide their workers with insurance as part of the benefits package. However, other Americans purchase individual insurance plans that can be costly.




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