Understanding the US Healthcare System: Structure & Regulation

In the US health care system, services are provided primarily by the private sector in the context of a competitive market.

Health Care Regulation

• The US government is responsible for regulating many facets of health care to insure the safe delivery of medical services.

Health Insurance

• Health insurance provides compensation for medical care through an agreed-upon payment schedule for those enrolled in an insurance plan.

Care Provision

• Because medical care is, for the most part, provided by private entities, individuals seeking health care are free to choose their own providers and health care facilities.

Government Programs

• The government does provide health insurance programs for certain segments of the population, such as the elderly, individuals with disabilities and families living in poverty.

Cost of Care

• 47 million Americans are currently uninsured and the cost of health care without medical insurance can be prohibitive for many of these individuals.