Medicaid Policy & Politics

University of Arizona via Coursera

Go to Course: https://www.coursera.org/learn/medicaid-policy-politics

Introduction

**Course Review: Medicaid Policy & Politics on Coursera** In the landscape of American healthcare, few topics are as critical and complex as Medicaid. The course **"Medicaid Policy & Politics,"** available on Coursera, presents an exceptional opportunity for anyone interested in understanding this vital government program that serves millions of low-income Americans. Developed by knowledgeable instructors Kirin and Asha, the course navigates the intricate web of federal, state, and private interactions that dictate how healthcare is administered to those in need. ### Overview of the Course Medicaid, as an essential government initiative, plays a key role in ensuring that vulnerable populations receive necessary healthcare services. This course provides a comprehensive examination of Medicaid, exploring its history, structure, funding mechanisms, and the evolving nature of its delivery systems. The course is structured into distinct modules that allow students to grasp foundational knowledge before progressing to more complex topics. As students advance through the modules, they will learn about the interplay between politics, policy, and public health – a critical understanding for anyone engaged in or studying public health policy. ### Course Modules 1. **Medicaid and the Government** The course kicks off with an exploration of Medicaid's integration within the broader government system. This module establishes essential historical context, laying a solid foundation for examining the intricate decisions made at both federal and state levels. 2. **Delivery Systems & Managed Care** This module delves into managed care, a pivotal component of Medicaid. Kirin and Asha elucidate how third-party organizations coordinate patient care, emphasizing the implications for both providers and beneficiaries. 3. **State Plans** Understanding the state-level strategies for Medicaid is imperative, and this module provides a detailed overview of how states structure and administer their Medicaid programs. Additionally, it discusses the process by which states can amend their plans or request waivers, allowing for flexibility in response to local needs. 4. **Social Determinants of Health (SDoH)** As healthcare continues to evolve, attention is shifting towards the factors that influence overall health beyond medical treatment. This module highlights how some state Medicaid programs are beginning to incorporate services that address SDoH, such as housing, nutrition, and transportation, thereby expanding the definition of healthcare. 5. **Medicaid Finance** One of the more technical aspects of Medicaid is its financing. In this module, financial calculations governing federal contributions are discussed alongside state budget dynamics, helping students understand the fiscal challenges and policy debates surrounding Medicaid. 6. **Medicaid in Arizona (optional)** For those interested in a more localized study, this module focuses on Arizona's Medicaid program, AHCCCS. It offers insight into how state-specific conditions shape Medicaid implementation, including discussions on tribal healthcare systems. ### Overall Impression The **Medicaid Policy & Politics** course is not only well-structured but also timely and relevant. The instructors do an excellent job of making complex topics accessible, combining theoretical knowledge with real-world examples. Participants can expect to engage with a variety of perspectives, including discussions on how legislative actions affect healthcare delivery and the ongoing debate around health equity. ### Who Should Take This Course? This course is ideal for public health professionals, policy analysts, social workers, and anyone interested in understanding the nuances of healthcare policy and its implications for marginalized populations. Additionally, students in healthcare administration or political science could benefit greatly from the insights provided. ### Final Recommendation I wholeheartedly recommend the **Medicaid Policy & Politics** course on Coursera. It offers a solid grounding in Medicaid policy and politics while encouraging critical thinking about the role of government in health care. The interactive nature of the course, combined with the expertise of the instructors, provides a robust educational experience that can equip students with the knowledge they need to contribute meaningfully to discussions and decisions around healthcare policy in the United States. Whether for personal growth or professional development, this course is a worthy investment for anyone looking to deepen their understanding of this crucial aspect of American healthcare.

Syllabus

Medicaid and the Government

This first module focuses on how Medicaid fits into government systems, a basic overview of Medicaid, and the historical context. We start with some basics you may already be familiar with, but quickly build upon them as a foundation for understanding where policy decisions are made.

Delivery Systems & Managed Care

Kirin and Asha discuss healthcare delivery systems, focusing on managed care – a delivery system in which third party managed care organizations (MCOs) coordinate care for members and the state Medicaid agency pays MCOs rather than paying providers directly.

State Plans

Kirin and Asha discuss state plans, which are the blueprints for establishing all important details about how a state structures and administers its Medicaid program. We also talk about how state plans can be amended and circumstances under which a state can request permission to "break the rules" using a waiver.

Social Determinants of Health (SDoH)

Kirin and Asha talk about how state Medicaid programs are increasingly going beyond providing traditional healthcare services and adding programs and services that improve member health through things like healthy housing, reliable transportation, and nutritious food.

Medicaid Finance

In this module, Kirin and Asha discuss how the federal contribution to Medicaid funding is calculated, how state budgets work, and what policy arguments are made with regard to Medicaid spending and structure.

Medicaid in Arizona (optional)

Kirin and Asha visit a single state in more depth. Part I gives an overview of the Arizona Healthcare Cost Containment System (AHCCCS), including: the history, structure of the agency, its influence on national trends, the benefits provided, costs, and the dual eligible population. In part II, special guest Markay Adams explains how the tribal healthcare system intersects with Medicaid in Arizona.