Which best describes the strengths of the American health care system? (Select all that apply.)

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The United States leads the world in laboratory and clinical research. The United States also exceeds other industrialized countries in the availability and use of technological advances. We do not rank near the top in length of life or patient care outcomes although we spend far more on health care than other industrialized nations. We are just beginning to confront the issues of access and rationing.

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.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D because all the laws/policies mentioned have had a significant impact on altering healthcare delivery over different timelines. The Affordable Care Act (ACA) introduced reforms to expand healthcare coverage and improve quality. Medicare and Medicaid were pivotal in providing healthcare access to specific populations. The Hill-Burton Act focused on funding for hospital construction. The Social Security Act established social insurance programs. The HMO Act promoted managed care. The Pure Food and Drug Act ensured safety and effectiveness of drugs. Each of these laws/policies has contributed to shaping the healthcare delivery system in the US, making D the correct choice.