The Affordable Care Act (ACA) is the most monumental piece of U.S. federal health policymaking in nearly 50 years. Its implementation and effect on the lives of tens of millions of Americans is-and will continue to be-an ongoing, dynamic process for the federal government, states, employers, insurers, providers, patients and others.

This concise, 62-page examination of health reform in the United States is a comprehensive look at the key components of the ACA. It also explores all previous attempts at health reform, as well as the 2012 U.S. Supreme Court decision on the constitutionality of the Affordable Care Act, and key issues going forward.

Newly updated for 2016, this classroom tested material offers learning objectives, a vignette, and many discussion questions that will spark student dialogue and critical thinking.

This unique analysis is updated annually and serves as an excellent supplement to any textbook for courses across the spectrum of the health care disciplines, including Public Health, Health Administration, Medicine, Nursing, and other Health Professions.