In 2015, the PPACA will achieve its 5-year milestone. Since the inception of PPACA, many changes have occurred in the way health care is delivered and purchased by consumers. This week gives you an opportunity for introspective analysis. How well is the PPACA actually working? Is it meeting public expectations? Compare what the research literature says with your own experiences and observations. This should form the basis for your Discussion, with a focus on what has been achieved to date and what can still be improved.

To prepare for this Discussion, read the Levitt article on how well the PPACA is working, as well as articles in this week's Learning Resources regarding the PPACA. Consider whether or not you agree with the Levitt article, and why. As Levitt asserts, there are always differences of opinion about the law and policy issues. Consider each point discussed by Levitt, including easy online access for people to get information about health insurance options, making insurance more accessible and affordable, and reducing the number of Americans who are uninsured.

An evaluation (or assessment) of whether or not you agree with Levitt, the author of the article, making sure to address the specific points he outlines, including the online process for obtaining health care information, accessibility, affordability, and reducing the number of uninsured. Support your position by utilizing a minimum of two peer-reviewed resources from the academic literature.

General Guidance on Discussion Posts: Your original post, due by Day 3, will typically be 3-4 paragraphs in length (not including references) as a general expectation/estimate. Refer to the Week 5 Discussion Rubric for grading elements and criteria. Your Instructor will use the rubric to assess your work.

Levitt, L. (2014, July 9). JAMA forum: How well is the Affordable Care Act working? Retrieved from http://newsatjama.jama.com/2014/07/09/jama-forum-how-well-is-the-affordable-care-act-working/