Financing plays a significant role in the process and structure of the U.S. health care system. It is impacted by politics, health consumers, reimbursement systems, for-profit industries, and special interest groups. The result is that many different groups work to place their agenda for health care spending and reimbursement in the forefront. This places a burden upon society and contributes to a disjointed system.

How health care is financed shapes the types of services provided, who receives services, and how health care professionals are reimbursed for services. To prepare for this Discussion, reflect on your readings as well as the information provided by the experts in this week’s video presentation.

With these thoughts in mind, select and evaluate one of the financing options/programs that pay for health care in the U.S. Then, address the following:

• What are the issues associated with that option?

• How does health care financing impact nursing practice?

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