The function of healthcare systems in safeguarding the welfare of aging people is of

utmost significance. The United States and Italy exemplify divergent methods of providing

healthcare services for elderly populations. While the former system is characterized by its

reliance on a private structure that offers limited coverage, the latter approach advocates for

the provision of universal healthcare, considering it a fundamental entitlement for all

individuals (Kovik, Margaret, 2020). The study of healthcare examines the merits and

drawbacks of each design, suggests prospective modifications, and underscores the influence of

social work values on the formulation of healthcare legislation. Social workers and other helping

professionals will need to meet the demand of this growing aging population (NASW, 2019).

Schools of social work will need to aggressively recruit students and offer training in

gerontology social work (NASW, 2019). Since healthcare is important for the treatment of both

physical and mental health forpeople of all ages. Older people require specific services

to their needs since their aging bodies and minds tend to change and function differently. The

United States and other countries address these issues and provide benefits specific to the needs

of the elderly, but the shortage of social workers make it difficult to tend to those in need of

mental healthcare. The issues regarding the growing aging population are of much concern and

political representatives and those in healthcare continue to work to meet the needs of the aging

population.

In the United States, those who have reached the age of 65 and above are deemed

eligible for Medicare, a federal health insurance program. Medicare provides

comprehensive coverage for a diverse array of medical services, encompassing hospital

admissions, consultations with healthcare professionals, and the procurement of prescribed

medications (Wilson, M., 2010). This system offers crucial assistance to elderly individuals, yet,

it is not without its constraints (Wilson, M., 2010). A notable drawback is the absence of

comprehensive coverage, resulting in a substantial proportion of elderly individuals lack

insurance. Additionally, the complexity and division of the system contribute to access

disparities, which depend on people's income and employment status. Although Medicare is a

a vital resource, it does not fully guarantee equitable access to healthcare for all elderly

individuals. According to NASW (2019), social work practice with older adults encompasses a

broad range of functions. Whether working in micro or macro settings, the primary goal of the

the social worker is to address the specific challenges of the aging process by promoting

independence, autonomy, and dignity in later life (NASW, 2019).

In contrast, Italy exemplifies a universal healthcare system that provides

comprehensive coverage for its population, including the elderly. The Servizio Sanitario

Nazionale (Italian National Service for Health) upholds the principle of healthcare as a

fundamental human right, ensuring universal access to essential medical services for all

individuals using publicly funded healthcare facilities (The Commonwealth Fund, 2023).

Although specific procedures may necessitate modest co-payments, the comprehensive system

presents reduced expenses and superior health outcomes compared to its American equivalent.

Nevertheless, the healthcare system in Italy does have certain limitations. The restricted

implementation of home care services among the elderly population may give rise to

difficulties in providing care and comprehensive assistance to aging people.

The examination of the strengths and limitations of both systems necessitates a rigorous

analysis and the consideration of prospective modifications. The implementation of

universal healthcare in the United States, like the healthcare systems observed in Italy and

other advanced countries have the potential to yield advantageous outcomes. The United

States can mitigate healthcare disparities by ensuring equitable access to comprehensive

treatment for all elderly people without imposing financial constraints. This would result in a

the transition that would additionally facilitate a heightened focus on preventive healthcare and

result in a decrease in long-term healthcare expenditures and an enhancement of

general public health (Wilson, M., 2010).

The healthcare system in Italy has the potential for enhancement through the

reduction or elimination of co-payments associated with critical medical procedures (The

Commonwealth Fund, 2023). This measure would mitigate potential financial obstacles that may

continue to impact older individuals, notwithstanding the system's inherent advantages.

Furthermore, the implementation of an extended range of home care services would effectively

cater to the requirements of the elderly population, enhance their overall well-being, and

alleviating the responsibilities faced by families and caregivers (The Commonwealth Fund,

2023). Moreover, the Italian government must prioritize the maintenance of competent and

enough healthcare personnel to effectively address the demands of a progressively older

population.

The application of social work ideals to the issue underscores the significance of

ensuring fair and equal access to healthcare and the ethical obligation to assist

marginalized and vulnerable communities. The ideals mentioned above are substantial

accordance with the core concepts that underpin Italy's universal healthcare system, which

acknowledges healthcare as an inherent and essential entitlement of every individual (The

Commonwealth Fund, 2023). In the context of the United States, the adoption of these principles

would necessitate a transition towards a healthcare system that is more inclusive and readily

accessible, with a specific focus on ensuring the welfare of the elderly population.

In conclusion, the elderly healthcare systems in the United States and Italy use

different methodologies, each with advantages and disadvantages. Medicare in

the United States offers partial coverage and Italy's universal healthcare system provides

comprehensive care to its population. Modifications are suggested in both healthcare systems

that includes the implementation of universal coverage in the United States and the expansion of

services in Italy would have the potential to improve the quality of treatment provided to aging

populations. Applying social work values to these challenges highlights the significance of

ensuring fair and equal access to resources and assistance. This approach directs the development

of policies prioritizing the overall welfare of elderly individuals in both nations and the potential

for global influence and the adoption of similar policies worldwide.

References:

Kovick, Margaret. (April 10, 2020).Wanted in Rome Since 1985.

Differences Between U.S. and Italian Healthcare Systems.

https://www.wantedinrome.com/news/differences-between-us-and-italian-healthcare-systems.html

Shersher, Jane. 2023. Criminal Justice Social Work| MSW Guide.org

https://www.mswguide.org/careers/criminal-justice-social-work/

Wilson, M. 2010. Criminal justice social work in the United States: Adapting to new challenges.

Washington, DC. NASW Center for Workforce Studies

https://www.socialworkers.org/LinkClick.aspx?fileticket=n8L3HaALWb8%3d&portalid=0

Robin Osborn, Elias Mossialos, Ana Djordjevic, George A. Wharton. June 5, 2020.

The Commonwealth Fund.2023. Italy|International Health Care System Profiles.

https://www.commonwealthfund.org/international-health-policy-center/countries/italy.

Antonio Giulio de Belvis, Michela Meregaglia, Alisha Morsella, Andrea Adduci, Alessio Perilli

Fidelia Cascini Alessandro Solipaca, et.al., December 14, 2022.Italy: health system review 2022

(who. int). Health Systems in Transition, Vol. 24 No.4

https://eurohealthyobservatory.who.int/publications/i/italy-health-system-review-2022.

NASW - National Association of Social Workers (2019).A social worker in gerontology (SW-

G).https://www.socialworkers.org/Careers/Credentials-Certifications/Apply-for-

NASW-Social-Work-Credentials/Social-Worker-in-Gerontology

NIA - National Administration on Aging. (2019).Aging well in the 21st century. Strategic

directions for research on aging.https://www.nia.nih.gov/about/aging-well-21st-century-

strategic-directions-research-aging

Also, in the first few paragraphs, be very explicit with explaining the U.S. health care system and the Italian one. Nevertheless, you did a very good job incorporating how our social work values align with the affected population.

Please make any changes.

Thank you,