Public Health Nursing Practice Exam

What was one outcome of the Balanced Budget Act of 1997 concerning vulnerable populations?

1. Improved access for frail older adults

2. Decreased health disparities

3. Increased restrictions on home health services

4. Enhanced services for low-income families

The correct answer is: Increased restrictions on home health services

The Balanced Budget Act of 1997 aimed to control the growth in Medicare spending, and one of its significant outcomes was increased restrictions on home health services. This legislation imposed limitations on the reimbursement for home health care, which directly impacted the availability and accessibility of these services for vulnerable populations, such as the elderly and individuals with disabilities. These restrictions often meant that home health agencies faced challenges in providing care, including increased scrutiny and requirements for service provision. As a result, the efficacy and availability of essential health services for those who rely heavily on home health assistance were adversely affected. Vulnerable populations that depend on home health services for their everyday needs experienced barriers in accessing timely and appropriate care, leading to concerns about the overall adequacy of support provided to them in their homes. In contrast, other choices such as improved access for frail older adults, decreased health disparities, and enhanced services for low-income families do not accurately represent the effects that came about due to the Balanced Budget Act. Instead, they reflect aspirations for public health that were challenged by the constraints implemented under this legislation.