Flatlined: History and Politics of United States Healthcare

Catalog description

This course will explore the development of American health care policy over the course of the 20th century, and situate its development within the political, economic, and social contexts that influence policy outcomes. Key areas that this course will explore are the history of health care reform including the Affordable Care Act, Medicare and Medicaid, and the development of private health insurance. It will also address the question of whether or not access to affordable and safe health care is a basic right for all Americans. Students will conclude the class by suggesting solutions to the problem of divergent health care access and divergent health outcomes for underserved communities and groups.