Health care in the United States
Health care in the United States
Health care in the United States (pronunciation: /ˈhɛlθ keər ɪn ðə juːˈnaɪtɪd steɪts/) refers to the provision of medical services by health care providers and organizations in the United States. The etymology of the term "health care" is derived from the Old English words "hǣlth" meaning "wholeness, a being whole, sound or well," and "carian" meaning "to care for, worry about."
Overview
The United States has a mix of public and private funding for health care. The government provides health care funding for certain populations such as the elderly, disabled, low-income individuals and veterans through programs like Medicare, Medicaid, and the Veterans Health Administration. Private health care is often funded through health insurance provided by employers or purchased individually.
Health care providers
Health care providers in the United States include individual health professionals such as physicians, nurses, and pharmacists, as well as organizations like hospitals, clinics, and long-term care facilities.
Health care quality and disparities
The quality of health care in the United States varies widely. Some areas of the country have world-class medical facilities and providers, while others struggle with access to basic health services. There are also significant disparities in health outcomes based on factors such as race, ethnicity, socioeconomic status, and geographic location.
Health care reform
Health care reform in the United States has been a topic of significant political debate. The Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act, often referred to as "Obamacare," was a major reform effort aimed at increasing access to health care, improving quality, and reducing costs.
Related terms
- Health insurance in the United States
- Health care reform in the United States
- Public health
- Preventive healthcare
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Health care in the United States
- Wikipedia's article - Health care in the United States
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