What is meant by health care reform?

Health care reform refers to systemic changes in governmental policy that aim to alter how health care is delivered and financed. This can encompass a wide range of initiatives, including legislation that influences insurance markets, affects the quality of care patients receive, and shifts the responsibilities of health care providers. The goal of such reforms is often to increase access, improve quality, and reduce costs within the health care system.

For instance, significant health care reforms in various countries have included the introduction of universal health coverage, regulation of insurance companies, and initiatives to control costs in pharmaceutical pricing. These measures are often intended to address shortcomings in the existing health care system, ensuring that health care is accessible and equitable for all individuals.

The other options provided are more specific aspects or effects of health care reform rather than the concept itself. Improvements in hospital infrastructure, enhancements in patient insurance coverage, and reductions in the cost of pharmaceuticals can all be components of health care reform, but they do not capture the broader definition of what reform entails.