Assignment task: For this week's second discussion question, you are being asked to engage in a reflective exercise. Below are the course learning outcomes, which can be physically located under the course overview module. Now that you are nearing the conclusion of the course, I would like for you to discuss just how prepared you feel you are in terms of addressing each outcome. If you believe there are certain outcomes which you're still not as comfortable with, what specific steps (or actions) will you take outside of this course to strengthen these areas?
1. Compare and contrast the key healthcare system characteristics and components between the United States and selected developed countries.
2. Distinguish between group insurance, self-insurance, individual health insurance, managed care, and high-deductible plans with savings.
3. Assess the implications of the ACA on cost, access, and quality; how it affects physician-owned specialty hospitals and nonprofit hospitals; and the reasons behind the dramatic growth in outpatient services.
4. Evaluate highly integrated health care systems, namely integrated delivery systems and accountable care organizations.
5. Justify the main principles behind patient-centered medical homes and community-based health care.
6. Analyze the role of population health management on health care systems and practices.
7. Evaluate critical issues commonly associated with the healthcare delivery system and critique whether or not the actions taken sufficiently address these issues.
In addition to your perceived comfort with the learning outcomes, I would like to know which learning approaches you found most helpful and why? Finally, do you believe that this course strengthened your critical thinking skills?