LAWW 53303 — Health Policy
The focus will be on policy issues facing the American health care system. We will discuss health policy, policy making, and the law. The American health care delivery system will be studied -- including its funding mechanisms (like Medicare, Medicaid, and health insurance) -- and compared to other countries. Public health institutions and systems will be explored. The Affordable Care Act will be reviewed in depth. Social health determinants will be examined, along with ways attorneys can intervene to "treat" important social issues affecting health. Individual rights to health care in the U.S. will be discussed, as well as specific rights related to gender, abortion, genetic research, suicide, and end-of-life issues. Discrimination in health care will be examined. Medical malpractice reform will be debated. Public health issues like FDA drug regulation, obesity, opioid abuse, vaccinations, and medical marijuana will be surveyed. Health care quality policy and the law will be reviewed. Additional topics will be added as time allows and as current events dictate. (Typically offered: Irregular)