Conclusion
In conclusion, the goal of improving healthcare in Nevada is a goal all policy makers share. It is important to approach this goal thoroughly, armed with the latest statistics, and with an open mind to all proposals. I recognize many of the recommendations laid out in this paper are not politically feasible at this time, but the hope is that lawmakers can come together to make tough decisions on behalf of the citizens of the state of Nevada.
However, somewhat surprisingly, not all the woes of healthcare in NV lie, at least directly, at the foot of lawmakers. The difficulty of creating new residencies and the stringentness of state licensing requirements can be significantly attributed to private professional groups, AOA, AMA etc... Of course, ultimately, the actions of government are reflective of the degree of involvement and advocacy of the people.
Returning to answer our original question: What is the proper roll for government in society? The answer, at least in regarding the education of healthcare providers, suggests there is little or no role in which government is helpful or effective. While it would be warm and tolerant, and partly accurate to say 'the two competing and cooperating systems together create the best conditions for healthcare training in NV', it would also be remiss. If the state funded system can survive as a private entity, keeping its head above water in the marketplace of ideas and in the face of true competition, then this conclusion will be happily retracted. More likely, it will sink like a sack of bricks. It would behoove those in the private healthcare medical training industries, private DO and MD schools in particular, to recognize the state impact on their future bottom line and advocate accordingly.
Speaking of a 'marketplace', it is often said healthcare does not function as a 'free market' and therefore must be regulated and subsidized. In fact, the importance of the healthcare necessitates alleviation from political interference, and the resulting shortages, stagnations, and inefficiencies typically resultant from top down state command. If a free market approach works best for the education of healthcare workers, critics would be wise to reconsider this approach for the rest of the healthcare as well.