Certified in Public Health (CPH) Practice Exam

What is the principal belief difference between supporters of universal health care and free market health care?

1. A willingness to sustain tax increases

2. The belief in health care as an entitlement versus a reward

3. A moral judgment regarding responsibility for health

4. A desire to eliminate government involvement

The correct answer is: The belief in health care as an entitlement versus a reward

Supporters of universal health care generally believe that access to health care is a fundamental human right, which positions health care as an entitlement. This view emphasizes that all individuals should have guaranteed access to necessary medical services regardless of their economic status. It reflects the philosophy that society has a collective responsibility to ensure that health care is available to everyone, as it is essential for maintaining public health and well-being. In contrast, proponents of free market health care often view access to health care as a reward for individual effort and success. This perspective aligns with the belief that health care services should be provided based on market principles, where competition drives quality and innovation, and individuals are responsible for seeking and affording their own care. This distinction highlights a deeper ideological divide: one side prioritizes equity and access, while the other emphasizes personal responsibility and market efficiency. The difference in beliefs regarding how health care should be perceived fundamentally shapes the arguments for or against specific health care systems. Understanding this belief difference is crucial for discussions surrounding health care policy and reform, as it reflects underlying values about society’s responsibility toward health care provision.