Chapter 6, Problem 1QAP

To determine

The significance of the downfall of a social system in contributing to a crisis of healthcare spending.

Explanation of Solution

Obesity is considered one of the major social issues faced by the United States of America. It is even seen as a national epidemic. Over the past fifty years, the figures of obesity have risen drastically. More than one third of the adults in the United States have been clinically declared as obese. The medical cost of an obese individual has been calculated as $1429 more than a healthy individual. 9.1% of the total medical spending in the country accounts for obesity related matters. Further, the use of alcohol and drugs has also been much instrumental in increasing the medical care spending figures. Individuals that consume alcohol and use drugs commit various illnesses in the long run. In treating such diseases, a huge cost must be borne by the country. Nevertheless, as a result of various individuals consuming alcohol and drugs, there may be other parties affected. For example, a parent consuming alcohol may abuse his or her children either physically or mentally. Treating such affected partied would also add up to the total medical spending. Teen pregnancy has also been instrumental in fueling up the healthcare spending figures. A majority of teen mothers have been identified as heavy smokers. This creates negative impacts upon the health of the mother as well as the baby. Domestic violence, another contributor to increased healthcare spending, does it in two ways. Bodily injuries caused by incidents of domestic violence and the mental trauma suffered by victims must be treated accordingly. All the factors aforesaid show the deterioration of values within society which directly and indirectly contribute to a rising cost of medical care that must be borne by a society.

Economics Concept Introduction

Introduction:

Within the current context, one could identify a number of social problems that create a great impact upon the amounts spent on health care. Their impact has become so intense that one could in fact consider them as health issues faced by a society. Obesity, the use of alcohol and drugs, teen pregnancy and domestic violence are some examples for such social problems. These problems depict the downfall of a society and lead the society to a crisis situation where enormous amounts must be spent in relation to the healthcare of affected parties.