Top executives and members of a corporation's board of directors have different roles and responsibilities. Traditionally, executives have been responsible for determining the firm's strategic direction and implementing strategies to achieve it, whereas the board of directors has been responsible for monitoring and controlling managerial decisions and actions. Some argue that boards should become more involved with the formulation of a firm's strategies. How would the board's increased involvement in the selection of strategies affect a firm's strategic competitiveness? What evidence you offer to support their position?

To prepare for this discussion, you researched one recent health care organization's alliance. Distinguish the factors that are most important in carrying out a successful health care organization's merger or acquisition. Defend at least two reasons why health care organization alliances are sometimes necessary. Provide a rationale for your response.

Dispute or defend the idea that a government regulation system should be the main regulating body in health care. Predict two consequences of the alternative regulating system being in control. Provide a rationale for your response.

1. Overview of the town:
2.  
3. Population: 32,434h
   Population Growth: +4.7%
   Elevation: 56 ft. above sea level
   
   Avg. Low Temp (Jan.): 25 F
   Avg. High Temp (July): 64F
   
   Annual Rainfall: 71 in.
   Annual Snowfall: 80 in.
   Sunny Days Per Year: 86
   
   Drinking Water Source: groundwater and river
   
   Urban Area: 14 sq. mi.
   Main Power Source:natural gas
   
   Average Commute:15.6 minutes
   
   % Taking Mass Transit: 5.3%
   
   Top Occupations:
   public administration (23.8%)
   health care (12.3%)
4. educational services (8.1%)
   retail trade (8.7%)
   
   Overview:
   The community of Ashfordton is located at the base of a mountain, on a secluded
   ocean inlet, surrounded by rugged, forested land covered with spruce and fir
   trees. The only access to the city is by ferry or plane; no roads connect it to other
   communities in the region. Winters are wet, mild, and long, with limited sunlight
   due to its