Week Four: Discussion Two

Demographics, Technology and Future of Health Care Delivery . (CLO 3, 4, 5) (20 points) 

There are many considerations when it comes to the future of healthcare in the United States and globally. Technological advancements, demographic changes, and climate change all influence the future needs and provisions of our healthcare.

Consider the current trends in US and globally; what are some of the healthcare challenges facing the USA in global context? What approaches are being taken or should be taken to prepare for these challenges? Here are some of the issues for consideration

· Growing elderly population,

· Increasing mental health needs,

· Growing racial and socioeconomic disparities in access to care and health outcomes,

· Climate change, increasing disasters, and large population displacements,

· Increasingly culturally diverse communities (see media)  International Comparisons of Health Care Delivery  - HTML

For this discussion, explore the following questions:

· What are the major trends and future needs of the US healthcare system?

· Who is most impacted by the challenges faced by the system, and how is that apparent?

· How do the challenges relate to specific characteristics of the U.S. health care delivery system?

· How can technological advancements influence these challenges (better or worse)?

· What alternative approaches, innovations, or changes in policy can address these significant healthcare issues in a global context?