How do conservatives, liberals, and the radical left construct problems related to health care differently? Provide specific positions in your answer.

Question

What will be an ideal response?

Answer 1

- Radical-left view: The health of the rich is good, but the poor suffer. Access to health care is a problem and the medical establishment itself is distorted by the profit motive. High-quality health care should be the right of everyone. Only radical change toward an economic and political system that meets the needs of all will end the health inequalities in the U.S. population.
- Liberal view: Average health of the U.S. population is good, but disadvantaged people are less healthy; 28 million people lack health insurance. Government must extend access by putting in place a universal health care program so that prenatal care, nutrition, and appropriate medical treatment are available to all, regardless of their ability to pay.
- Conservative view: Health of the U.S. population has steadily improved and is very good by global standards. Individuals need to take greater responsibility for their own health. Encouraging responsible behavior is a key to illness prevention. Programs to extend health care coverage can help but should be provided by employers or paid for by individuals in a free-market system.