The government is a significant funding source in healthcare. Through Medicare and Medicaid, the government provides a significant amount of care in the United States. Consider the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act, signed into law in 2010, and evaluate the prospects for the future of government's role as a payer source. What are the hazards and opportunities associated with shifting healthcare expenditure to government? What are the hazards and opportunities associated with shifting healthcare expenditure away from government to private insurance companies and individuals?
Be specific and provide detailed examples to support your major points.