Health and Wellness   

This will not be a discussion, debate, argument, or continuing complaint about current problems with health care. Deliberation is a well-known process called a "reasoning exchange" where members examine several "frameworks" or sections of a public problem. This keeps the group focused on only one piece of the issue and not bogged down on a more global view. It will include 15-20 OLLI members, hopefully various health care professionals, citizens who have no involvement in health care, and perhaps leaders in the community from business, education, and nonprofits. Luckily, perhaps a local political leader. Each framework will call for the "considered judgment" of each participant, not a vote up or down. This process is more personal, with respect for each person's opinions. The first class will be a brief presentation on the process. Each session will present a specific framework to engage: the standing of health care in a modern society, what is universal care, financing health care in the state, governance and its specific services, cost containment, service delivery, evolution of malpractice, and funding and development of professional manpower in the state.

These four interactive sessions include lectures, group discussions, and online readings/videos. Session one examines U.S. healthcare status and insurance options (Medicaid, Medicare, Medicare Advantage, VA, private). Compares international health systems and quality measures between the U.S. and other developed nations. Session two traces the $4.8 trillion spent annually on U.S. healthcare: where it originates and how it's allocated, as well as exploring why America spends twice the per capita amount of other developed countries yet leaves millions uninsured or underinsured. Session three is a two-hour deep dive into the $1 trillion problem of healthcare waste, fraud, and abuse. Finally, session four discusses pathways toward universal, comprehensive, affordable health insurance that eliminates medical bankruptcy, ensures adequate coverage, and provides quality care for all Americans.