1. In the last century, what historical, social, political, and economic trends and issues have influenced today’s health-care system?

The last century has seen a number of historical, social, political, and economic trends and issues that have significantly influenced the current healthcare system. Some of the most notable of these include:

1. Technological advancements: The rapid advancement of medical technology has transformed the healthcare industry in countless ways, from the development of new diagnostic tools and treatments to the increased use of electronic health records and telemedicine.
2. Increased government involvement: The government has played a growing role in healthcare over the last century, from the creation of programs like Medicare and Medicaid to the passage of the Affordable Care Act. This increased involvement has been driven by a recognition of the important role that access to healthcare plays in overall health and wellbeing.
3. The growth of managed care: The rise of managed care organizations has had a significant impact on the healthcare system, with insurance companies and other providers increasingly exerting control over the delivery and financing of care.
4. The aging of the population: As people live longer and the population ages, the healthcare system has had to adapt to meet the increasing demand for care, from the treatment of chronic conditions to the management of end-of-life care.
5. Rising healthcare costs: The cost of healthcare has been rising rapidly over the last century, driven by a number of factors including the increasing use of technology, the growth of managed care, and the aging of the population. This has led to increased pressure on the healthcare system to find ways to reduce costs while maintaining or improving the quality of care.

These trends and issues have all contributed to the current state of the healthcare system, shaping the way that care is delivered, financed, and managed. Despite these challenges, however, the healthcare industry remains committed to improving the health and wellbeing of people across the country.