Describe an example of constraining autonomy in public health.

Question

Describe the concept of federalism and its relation to public health financing.

Answer 1

Hi Anahi from Oxnard, CA...hope you're having a great weekend. This is an excellent question and one that isn't easy to answer. This is because to answer this question implies a number of variable which often times can't be determined. What makes it this way, is the fact that as the word autonomy and federalism implies, certain aspects attempt to decide for a larger part of the population.

I am presuming this question relates to the US. If it does, then as you can see in your state, as well as the nation, there is a great deal of disagreement on what the federal government can, should or can't do for the entire Nation.

To start with, you will need to identify, define some components of your response: define and give examples of what is meant by public health. 

Also briefly define what federalism means, not just the definition, but what you understand federalism is and give an example of this.

Here are some examples of why this is important. If you want someone to agree with you definition of what a public health issues is, give an example, such as secondhand smoking or texting/being on a phone while driving. These behaviors can be dangerous to the person engaging in this behavior, but it also puts others, who AREN'T engaging in this behavior at risk of what...this is what you will need to do to show or demonstrate what is and what isn't a public health issue.

Back to the issue of federalism, does the government have the right or the desire to act to address a public health issue. What is the Constitutional support for addressing a public health issue. Here is an example: seatbelts, why should there be laws applying to wearing or not wearing seatbelts. Should anyone have the right to use or not use seatbelts. Who has the right to tell me or you why a seatbelt law should be? 

I am going to give you some bullet points for you to consider, then you can proceed with developing your argument and position, defending you point of view.

Review this things, come up with your own point of view, pick an issue, there are so many, smoking, e-cigs, opioid addition, guns, childhood immunizations, bullying, shaming, etc. 

Think about how they might affect you, those in you family, your neighborhood, your school, etc.

Here is an article as a reference, it is a bit in depth, but perhaps you can pick some ideas.

I have given you some ideas to begin to answer your problem. If you need further assistance, contact me on Wyzant