Medical Schools Seek Applicants’ Who Understand Health Policy & Health Care ReformWith the rapidly evolving political health care landscape, many medical schools are becoming more interested in applicants’ understanding of health policy and health care reform.For those preparing a medical school interviews – whether in a traditional interview or a multiple mini-interview they will be expected to have a clear understanding of health care reform.U.S. Health Care SystemMedical school interviews ask applicants about their view on the American health care system. An effective response to this question considers the system’s strengths and weaknesses. This response definitely requires having a general understanding of the U.S. health care system.Strengths: America has the most advanced technologies and medical treatments and is at the forefront of medical research. The country is making contributions to the newest, cutting-edge cures in health care. In addition, wait times for accessing health care services in America are shorter than most other industrialized countries.Weaknesses: Not everyone in America has insurance coverage or sufficient access to health care. Although the country has advanced technologies and treatments, many – namely those with no or limited insurance – can’t access these.Fact: America spends more of its gross domestic product on health care than any other industrialized country but does not achieve better health outcomes than many countries that spend less on health care.Health Care ReformMedical schools will inquire about a student’s opinion of the ACA. A balanced approach and comments on this legislation’s pros and cons should avoid strongly opinionated responses. A middle-of-the-road position is likely the best approach.Pros: The ACA has increased insurance coverage for millions by making more people eligible for Medicaid, increasing private insurance coverage for employees, allowing young adults to stay on their parents’ insurance plans until the age of 26, preventing people with pre-existing health conditions from being denied health insurance and requiring individuals to purchase private health insurance or pay a fee.The ACA also requires insurance plans to cover more preventive services, such as cancer screenings, which are meant to increase early detection of disease. This early detection is associated with greater survival and lower costs.Cons: While the ACA has covered millions more, not everyone receives coverage under this legislation, and many people in this country remain uninsured. Additionally, since the ACA provides financial help to some people who cannot afford to pay for health insurance and has increased the number of people covered under Medicaid, it has become costly for the government.A wise interviewee should understand the strengths and weaknesses of the health care system and the pros and cons of the ACA. They should follow current events and understand all major related issues.Interview PrepYes, more study! Read the news to get the latest updates on health care. Students aren’t expected to be a health policy expert, but need to demonstrate a general understanding of options and pending pros and cons.No solution is perfect. But there are strengths and weaknesses on both sides of the debate.It is recommended that interviewees state a balanced opinion; as long as their ideas sound reasoned, the interviewers will be impressed, even if their personal opinion differs.Source: US NEWS