Question

What does the term stakeholders mean? Who are the stakeholders in healthcare reform?

Answer 1

Stakeholders are entities that are integrally involved in the healthcare system and would be substantially affected by reforms to the system. The major stakeholders in the healthcare system are patients, physicians, employers, insurance companies, pharmaceutical firms and government.Insurance companies sell health coverage plans directly to patients or indirectly through employer or governmental intermediaries.Pharmaceutical firms develop and then market medications which are prescribed by doctors to treat patients.Typically they receive remuneration through insurance or governmental drug-benefit plans. Many employers offer health insurance coverage with varying deductibles and co-pays for their employees. Physicians are the providers of medical care; patients are the recipients.And government subsidizes healthcare for the elderly, the disabled and the poor. All stakeholders have duties and responsibilities.