The U.S. is always changing, in terms of policy affecting health, rights, trade, finance, government spending, and a host of other issues. However, the most newsworthy trends right now focus on a few key issues. Read on for more information about policy trends.
1. Reproductive health and rights
Many states are enacting legislation that restricts abortion. The restrictions are focused on either establishing stricter requirements for clinics performing abortions, or the terms under which women can receive abortion services. Some states are also enacting legislation to increase access to birth control services. While abortion policy remains a hotly debated issue, the focus on the most recent policy is about whether emergency rooms and certain medical services should be available near clinics that provide abortion services.
2. Trade policies encouraging exportation
The current trends in trade, are to focus on getting more U.S. exports to various parts of the world. The latest export category is in services, such as customer service and similar services. Referral and consulting services are also popular areas in which the U.S. can plenty of resources to offer businesses in other countries.
3. Gun control
Gun control is controversial, though the current trend leans toward the rights of gun owners. However, where people have opinions, those opinions for and against gun control are very strong one. This issue is not likely to go away soon and states are typically unable to establish stricter control, though some have adopted longer waiting periods and restrictions.
While the repeal of Obamacare has many issues to work out, the trend continues toward Medicare requiring physicians to accept payment methods other than the typical fee for service reimbursement model. Alternative payment systems could include performance-based models,
capitated reimbursement plans, and other models that reimburse providers a set amount for a specific diagnosis, rather than for services provided. This means providers will be required to accurately diagnose and treat, utilizing the least amount of resources necessary, to provide the best care.
If ACA (Affordable Care Act) is repealed, many Americans could find themselves without adequate insurance and providers might be tempted to selectively treat patients with more coverage, leaving others to seek care in urgent care or emergency room settings, as well as free clinics offered in many communities.