HEALTHCARE IN THE UNITED STATES

SPECIAL POPULATIONS

are reported among prisoners. However, without wide testing in all facilities, it is unknown how many inmates may be infected. Figure 7.9 illustrates a six-week period of reporting of coronavirus cases cases between April and May 2020.. The large increase results from five states (Ohio, Tennessee, Arkansas, Michigan, and North Carolina) initiating aggressive testing of nearly all prisons in which people are becoming sick.

Figure 7.9: Corona Virus Cases Reported Among Prisoners

Source: The Marshall Project

Attribution: Corey Parson, Adapted from The Marshall Project

License: Fair Use

7.10 SUMMARY

The U.S. provides healthcare services and support to a few special populations. Military veterans, children and adults with disabilities, the elderly, and those incarcerated and living within our prisons all have specific health needs that are costly. The dynamics are complicated for each special group. This chapter included a discussion of available healthcare programs as well as how these programs are funded, some conditions of eligibility to receive assistance, and statistics of each special group. The programs discussed in this chapter provide many resources which help to contribute to the overall health of each individual. In addition, the chapter addresses the impact of the COVID-19 virus on special populations.

7.11 REVIEW QUESTIONS

1. How does legislation address American Indians and Alaska Natives

receiving healthcare coverage?

2. How does policy, such as the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA),

support persons with disabilities?

3. What health services does the Veterans Administration provide to

military veterans?

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