Course Description

Join us for an enlightening exploration of the Affordable Care Act (ACA), commonly known as "Obamacare," in this comprehensive Teach-Out course offered by the University of Michigan. This course delves deep into the economic, legal, and public health implications of potential changes to the ACA, providing a balanced and informative perspective on one of the most significant pieces of healthcare legislation in recent history.

Led by policy experts from the University of Michigan, this course goes beyond the headlines to examine not only the widely-discussed insurance coverage provisions but also the ACA's transformative impact on healthcare delivery and its crucial funding for public health initiatives. Whether you're a healthcare professional, policy enthusiast, or simply a concerned citizen, this course offers invaluable insights into the complex world of healthcare policy and its far-reaching consequences.

What Students Will Learn

• A comprehensive understanding of the components of the Affordable Care Act
• An analysis of the ACA's successes and challenges since its implementation
• Insight into the various changes to the ACA currently under consideration by politicians
• An evaluation of the potential impact of these changes on individuals, industries, and the healthcare system as a whole
• The economic implications of the ACA and proposed reforms
• Legal aspects of potential changes to the ACA
• The ACA's role in public health initiatives and funding
• The transformation of healthcare delivery under the ACA

Prerequisites

This course is designed for a general audience and does not require any specific prerequisites or prior knowledge. It is suitable for anyone interested in understanding the complexities of healthcare policy and the potential impacts of changes to the Affordable Care Act.

Course Content

• Overview of the Affordable Care Act and its key components
• Analysis of the ACA's impact on insurance coverage and healthcare access
• Examination of the ACA's role in transforming healthcare delivery
• Discussion of public health initiatives funded by the ACA
• Exploration of proposed changes to the ACA (repeal, repair, or replace)
• Economic implications of the ACA and potential reforms
• Legal considerations surrounding changes to healthcare legislation
• Impact of ACA changes on individuals, healthcare providers, and industries
• Future of healthcare policy in the United States

Who This Course Is For

• General public interested in understanding healthcare policy
• Students of public health, healthcare administration, or policy studies
• Healthcare professionals seeking to broaden their understanding of healthcare legislation
• Policy makers and their staff
• Journalists covering healthcare and policy issues
• Anyone concerned about the future of healthcare in the United States

Real-World Applications

The knowledge gained from this course will empower learners to:

• Make informed decisions about their own healthcare and insurance choices
• Engage in meaningful discussions about healthcare policy with colleagues, friends, and family
• Understand and critically analyze news reports and political debates surrounding healthcare reform
• Anticipate potential changes in the healthcare industry and their implications
• Contribute to local and national discussions on healthcare policy
• Make more informed voting decisions on healthcare-related issues
• Adapt personal or professional strategies in response to evolving healthcare legislation

This Teach-Out provides a solid foundation for understanding the complex landscape of healthcare policy, equipping learners with the knowledge to navigate and contribute to one of the most pressing issues facing society today.