Healthy People 2020 is an initiative established by the US Department of Health and Human Services to monitor the progress of the population in reaching national goals and objectives designed for health promotion and prevention. Healthy People 2020 is the product of extensive input from stakeholders. Many of its goals and objectives have been met, but there is still progress to be made.

From the assigned readings this week, review the following Web site:

• U.S. Department of Health and Human Services: Healthy People 2020. (2012). http://www.healthypeople.gov/2020/topicsobjectives2020/default.aspx

Review the listed topics and objectives of Healthy People 2020 and select one that is of interest to you. Then, respond to the following:

• Explain why the objective you chose is of great significance to the population and the health of the communities.
• Describe the federal program established in response to your selected objective.
• Examine the implications of the program in healthcare in terms of morbidity, mortality, policy, and costs.

Support your statements with appropriate examples and scholarly references.

Part 2: The Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act

The Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (PPACA) of 2010 is a pivotal piece of legislation aimed to improve the current healthcare system in the United States. The legislation intends to ensure that all American citizens have access to good quality and affordable healthcare. One of the main focuses of the act is preventing chronic disease and improving public health.

From the assigned readings this week, review the following Web resource:

• The White House. (n.d.). Health reform in action. Retrieved from http://www.whitehouse.gov/healthreform/healthcare-overview

Considering that the PPACA bill recommends the elimination of copayments (or copays) and deductibles for preventative healthcare for women, respond to the following:

• Provide a brief overview of PPACA.
• What are the implications of the PPACA for public health?
• In your opinion, do you think that the elimination of copays and deductibles will increase the number of women who have annual mammograms? Justify your answer.
• Even if these screening services are available, what would be the barriers to accessing these services?

Support your statements with appropriate examples and scholarly references.