Describe the role of major federal agencies in the healthcare system

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D because major federal agencies play crucial roles in the healthcare system. DHHS oversees public health and human services, VA provides healthcare to veterans, CDC focuses on disease prevention. FDA regulates food and drug safety, CMS administers Medicare and Medicaid, EPA protects environmental health. DoD offers healthcare to military personnel, and DoJ enforces healthcare-related laws. Each agency contributes uniquely to the functioning of the healthcare system, covering various aspects like healthcare access, safety, regulation, and enforcement. No single agency can fully address all healthcare system needs, hence the importance of all major federal agencies working together.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A because Medicare covers hospital care, outpatient services, and prescription drugs, while Medicaid primarily covers long-term care and physician visits. Emergency services are typically covered by both Medicare and Medicaid, but they are not the primary services financed by these programs. Medical equipment is covered by Medicare but not as a core service. Hospital care, physician services, and emergency services are not the complete range of services covered by Medicare and Medicaid.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C because the Affordable Care Act (ACA) expands the role of pharmacists in disease management and medication therapy management. This is achieved through provisions that promote team-based care, medication therapy management services, and collaborative practice agreements. Pharmacists are now able to provide more comprehensive care, leading to improved patient outcomes. Choice A is incorrect because the ACA aims to improve patient access to healthcare, not specifically medication therapies. Choice B is incorrect as the ACA focuses on increasing access to care rather than increasing prescription drug regulations or affecting pharmacy reimbursements. Choice D is incorrect as the ACA aims to improve access to medications and healthcare services, not reduce access or impose stricter medication regulations.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Assessment, policy development, assurance. Public health professionals require these core competencies to effectively assess community health needs, develop evidence-based policies, and ensure the delivery of essential health services. Research skills and program management (Choice A) are important but not specific to public health. Marketing skills and financial management (Choice C) may be useful but are not core competencies. Clinical expertise and patient care knowledge (Choice D) are more relevant to individual healthcare providers, not public health professionals.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D: All of the above. The ACA is a comprehensive law that includes multiple provisions aimed at reshaping the healthcare sector. A: A reform in payment methodologies such as bundled payments, medical homes, and accountable care organizations is a major provision of the ACA. These payment reforms aim to incentivize providers to deliver high-quality care efficiently. B: Reducing Medicare spending through penalties for readmission rates, payment reductions, quality improvement incentives, and the establishment of an advisory review board is another key provision. This helps control costs and improve the quality of care. C: Expanding insurance coverage through regulations, subsidies, and the creation of insurance marketplaces is also a major focus of the ACA. This provision aims to increase access to healthcare for millions of Americans. Therefore, all of the choices are major provisions of the ACA focused on reshaping the healthcare sector.