Online Program

Oral

The ACA is changing the environment in which health departments operate. For example, increases in health insurance coverage may change demand for clinical services from health departments and may also lead to alterations in federal and state funding for clinical services provided through health departments. At the same time, health care payment and delivery reforms, such as accountable care organizations (ACOs), quality metrics, and new community benefit requirements among others, may incentivize health care providers to increase their focus on secondary and tertiary, as well as primary, prevention of disease. Additionally, the ACA offers opportunities for health departments to continue or expand their non-clinical services, such as integrator and data services. The goal of this session is to give an overview of the potential impacts of the ACA on the public health system, and will feature examples from health departments.

Session Objectives: Describe at least three ways the Affordable Care Act is changing our health system. Discuss the potential implications of these changes for health departments and the public health system. Discuss at least two examples of public health involvement with health system reform efforts.

CE Credits: Medical (CME), Health Education (CHES), Nursing (CNE), Public Health (CPH) , Masters Certified Health Education Specialist (MCHES)