1. Briefly discuss the strengths and weaknesses of social insurance as a form of risk spreading.

2. Describe the meaning and function of a gatekeeper system.

3. Some practitioners are required, by law, to accept Medicare (and in some cases, Medicaid) patients.

In the past, Medicaid has reduced reimbursement rates on many procedures; sometimes to the point of being less than the actual cost to deliver the care.

So think very clearly and thoroughly before responding to this last question.

If Medicare significantly lowers its reimbursement rates to physicians, discuss the likely consequences of this event for all parties.