Health policy

Abstract

Understanding healthcare policy is essential for orthopaedic surgeons in the current, complex medical marketplace. Sweeping changes in payment mechanisms, advances toward so-called universal coverage, and the growing influence of federal programs not only affect daily decision making, they also have a substantial effect on traditional orthopaedic practices. It is helpful to be familiar with the origin and evolution of Medicare and Medicaid, as well as emerging concepts in value-based orthopaedics.