Which best describes the effects of Medicare and Medicaid? (Select one that does not apply)

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The enactment of Medicare and Medicaid created an unprecedented demand for services, and many persons without access to health care were now able to receive care using an indemnity insurance plan. Medicare reimbursement rates generally became the standard for all insurance carriers. These plans did not provide services for the temporarily disabled or change financing for public health education.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Medicaid provides universal health care coverage for the indigent and children. Eligibility is dependent on the size and income of the family. The federal government sets baseline eligibility requirements. State governments who wish to provide care to more citizens can lower the eligibility requirements. The federal government mandates covered services, but state governments may provide more services.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A because it accurately identifies the major players in the U.S. healthcare system. 1. Government: Regulates healthcare policies and programs. 2. Voluntary agencies: Provide charitable services and support. 3. Private enterprises: Include for-profit hospitals, clinics, and healthcare companies. Choice B is incorrect as it only focuses on specific sectors (pharmaceutical companies, insurance providers, hospitals) and excludes other key players. Choice C is incorrect as it oversimplifies the roles and excludes major stakeholders like government and voluntary agencies. Choice D is incorrect as it only includes specific roles (private hospitals, nurses, government contractors) and omits other influential entities like insurers and voluntary agencies.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A because it addresses key problems in the U.S. healthcare system: uneven access, high costs, and racial disparities. Uneven access refers to disparities in healthcare availability based on factors like income and location. High costs are a major concern, leading to financial barriers to care. Racial disparities highlight inequalities in health outcomes based on race. Proposed measures to improve include expanding coverage, controlling costs, and addressing systemic racism. Choice B is incorrect because overuse of technology is not a primary issue affecting healthcare delivery, and high insurance premiums are only one aspect of the cost problem. Choice C is incorrect because while unequal treatment across regions and low quality of care are issues, they are not as prevalent as the problems highlighted in choice A. Choice D is incorrect as limited access to doctors and high hospital rates are concerns, but they do not encompass the full scope of issues in healthcare delivery as comprehensively as choice A does.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A because immunization and antibiotics have significantly reduced the prevalence of infectious diseases. Lifestyle changes, such as improved sanitation and nutrition, have also played a crucial role in disease prevention. Population growth and smoking habits (option B) are important factors but do not directly address changes in disease patterns. While better medical education and technology (option C) have improved healthcare, they are not the primary factors shaping disease patterns. Rising health costs and medical advancements (option D) are important, but they do not directly explain changes in disease patterns over time.