Identify the role of government in the U.S. healthcare system

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A because the U.S. government plays multiple roles in the healthcare system. As a regulator, it establishes and enforces laws and regulations to ensure safety and quality. As a financier, it funds programs like Medicare and Medicaid. As a provider of services, it operates healthcare facilities like the VA hospitals. Explanation of why the other choices are incorrect: B: The government is not the direct employer of healthcare professionals. C: While the government may advocate for patients' rights through policies and legislation, it is not its primary role in the healthcare system. D: This is incorrect as the government does play a significant role in regulating, financing, and providing healthcare services in the U.S.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D because it includes all possible funding sources for U.S. healthcare finance. Private insurance and government programs are major sources. Personal savings and employer contributions also play a role. Federal subsidies and local taxes provide additional funding. Therefore, D encompasses all primary funding sources, making it the correct choice. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect as they do not cover all the diverse funding sources in U.S. healthcare finance.

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.