Stakeholders in Health Care Policy

Stakeholders in Healthcare Policy
Student’s Name
Institutional Affiliation
Stakeholders in Healthcare Policy
Healthcare reforms in the United States have always taken a policy-based approach to establish new programs or expand the existing ones to match the needs of the citizens. Notably, since the establishment of Medicare and Medicaid in 1965, several legislations have been enacted to strengthen the schemes to accommodate all Americans (Center et al. 2017). For instance, the adoption of Obamacare in 2010 sparked various changes in the Medicare and Medicare programs. For example, the act scrapped co-payment for screening services, paving the way for Americans to receive free tests. Other cost-cuts also expanded the program’s financial capacity. Medicaid was also broadened to capture more low-income citizens. In the advent of Obamacare, the number of uninsured Americans has significantly fallen, with only 13% being without cover today.
In Minnesota, insurance deductibles, commonly known as “spend-downs” have repeatedly been cited as one of the major faults in the state Medicaid scheme. This policy allows families whose income is above the income limit in case they have outstanding bills that exceed their monthly earning (DHS, 2018). While the intent is good, the fact that the age and family size determine the amount that one is required to pay makes the program less impactful. For instance, the calculation is based on the difference between family income limit and counted income.

In this case, I would recommend that the deductibles be based on individual income across all ages, provided their income is below the fundable limit. This would enable more low-income earners to benefit because they will not be held back their family income.
The key stakeholders in the Medicare and Medicaid policy in Minnesota are the Department of Health Services (DHS). This arm of the state government plays multiple roles, beginning with policy formulation and funding in collaboration with the government. Healthcare organizations and professionals also form an integral part of the stakeholders. They liaise with the state government and advocate for the establishment of regulations that benefit the public. Other players include the general population, NGOs, and the federal government.
References
Center, H., Woods, C. A., & Manchikanti, L. (2017). Evolution of US Health Care Reform. Pain Physician, 20, 107-110.