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SAGE Journal User Guide

Article 1.

Blank, R. H. (2012). Transformation of the US healthcare system: Why is change so difficult? Current Sociology, 60(4), 415-426. doi:10.1177/0011392112438327

This article provides commentary on the issue of why the U.S. healthcare system is so resistant to change.  Factors explored include the dominance of the medical establishment, the role of private insurance companies, and public suspicion of government involvement in healthcare. 

Questions:

1. How does the culture of individualism affect U.S. Americans’ views of health care and the possibilities for health care reform? 
2. What are the political and economic forces that have shaped health care policy transformation? 
3. What is the role of public expectations and perceptions of medicine in shaping health care policy?   

Article 2.

Castañeda, H., & Melo, M. A. (2014). Health care access for Latino mixed-status families: Barriers, strategies, and implications for reform. American Behavioral Scientist, 58(14), 1891-1909. doi:10.1177/0002764214550290

Drawing on qualitative interviews with members of mixed status families and health care providers, this article examines the public health dimensions of the broken immigration system.  The authors explore the unique experiences and constraints on family members and conclude with policy recommendations to promote social inclusion and greater access to care. 

1. Define “mixed-status” families.
2. How do fear of deportation and avoidance of institutions in general affect the health and access to health care among mixed status families? 
3. Describe the use of “collective strategies” among family members with respect to maintaining health.
4. What are the three central constraints that prevent members of mixed status families from pursuing care?