Debunking Myths Impeding Health Care Reform

Abstract

ABSTRACTHealth care reform tops the list of issues that voters consider important going into the 2020 elections. As health professionals, it is imperative that we not only become informed about this issue but also help shape our healthcare future. Based on a review of the health service and health policy literature, we address several myths that add to the confusion regarding the public debate on health care reform. This Commentary does not advocate for any specific reform proposal but identifies and debunks several commonly mentioned myths. Public understanding of these myths is essential as the health care reform debate continues to evolve. We also suggest several ways for health educators and professionals to engage actively in this dialogue as part of our professional responsibility. Translating health care reform into health education practice is consistent with the Code of Ethics for the Health Education profession that provides a framework of shared values within which Health Education is practiced. Including health care reform into health education practice also is consistent with several areas included in the Responsibilities and Competencies for Certified Health Education Specialists.A AJHE Self-Study quiz is online for this article via the SHAPE America Online Institute (SAOI)http://portal.shapeamerica.org/trn-Webinars