Influencing Health Module 1 Discussion. Analyze the history, structure, and process of health-care-policy and politics in nursing and the health care delivery systems in the United States. Submission Instructions: Your initial post should be at least 500 words, formatted and cited in current APA style with support from at least 2 academic sources.
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Influencing Health Module 1 Discussion
The Evolution of Health-Care Policy and Politics in Nursing and Health Care Delivery Systems in the United States
Introduction
- Briefly introduce the significance of health-care policy and politics in nursing.
- State the aim of the discussion: to analyze the historical development, structural framework, and processes involved in health-care policy and politics in the U.S.
Historical Overview
- Discuss the evolution of health-care policy in the U.S. from the early 20th century to the present.
- Highlight key milestones, such as the establishment of Medicare and Medicaid in 1965.
- Address the impact of significant events, such as the Affordable Care Act (ACA) of 2010.
- Explain how nursing’s role has evolved within this context, emphasizing advocacy and leadership.
Structure of Health-Care Policy
- Analyze the current structure of health-care policy in the U.S.
- Identify key stakeholders, including federal and state governments, private insurers, and health-care providers.
- Discuss the roles of organizations such as the American Nurses Association (ANA) in influencing policy.
- Explore the interrelationship between various levels of government (federal, state, local) and their impact on health-care delivery.
Processes of Health-Care Policy and Politics
- Describe the policy-making process in health care.
- Explain the stages of policy development: agenda setting, formulation, adoption, implementation, and evaluation.
- Discuss the influence of politics on health-care policy decisions.
- Highlight how political ideologies and lobbying efforts shape health-care laws and regulations.
Nursing’s Role in Health-Care Policy
- Examine the critical role nurses play in advocating for effective health-care policies.
- Discuss how nursing organizations contribute to policy development and implementation.
- Provide examples of successful nurse-led initiatives or legislation that improved patient care or access to services.
Conclusion
- Summarize the key points discussed.
- Emphasize the importance of understanding health-care policy and politics for nursing professionals and their ability to influence positive change in health care delivery systems.
References
- Include at least two academic sources in APA format. Some suggested sources:
- Schmitt, M. H. (2018). Health Policy: A Practical Guide to Understanding and Navigating the U.S. Health Care System. New York: Springer Publishing Company.
- American Nurses Association. (2020). Nursing: Scope and Standards of Practice (4th ed.). Silver Spring, MD: Author.
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Complete Essay on Influencing Health Module 1 Discussion
The Evolution of Health-Care Policy and Politics in Nursing and Health Care Delivery Systems in the United States
Health-care policy and politics play a critical role in shaping the landscape of nursing and health care delivery in the United States. Understanding this intricate system is essential for nurses who aim to advocate for patients and influence positive health outcomes. This discussion will explore the historical development, structural framework, and processes involved in health-care policy and politics within the nursing profession.
Historically, the U.S. health-care system has undergone significant transformation, particularly in the 20th century. The establishment of Medicare and Medicaid in 1965 marked a pivotal moment, providing health coverage to millions of Americans, particularly the elderly and low-income populations. The introduction of the Affordable Care Act (ACA) in 2010 further expanded access to care and aimed to improve the quality of health services. Throughout these changes, the role of nursing has evolved, with nurses increasingly participating in policy advocacy and leadership to ensure equitable health care for all (Schmitt, 2018).
The current structure of health-care policy in the United States involves multiple stakeholders, including federal and state governments, private insurers, and health-care providers. Each entity plays a unique role in the formulation and implementation of health policies. The American Nurses Association (ANA) is a significant organization advocating for nursing interests and influencing health policy decisions. It works to ensure that nursing perspectives are considered in the policy-making process, highlighting the need for a workforce that can effectively respond to the health needs of the population.
The policy-making process in health care comprises several stages: agenda setting, formulation, adoption, implementation, and evaluation. Each stage provides opportunities for nursing professionals to engage and influence policy. However, the political climate greatly impacts these decisions. Political ideologies and lobbying efforts can sway policymakers, often prioritizing certain interests over others. For instance, health-care reforms are frequently influenced by political agendas, demonstrating the need for nurses to be actively involved in advocating for patient-centered policies.
Nurses play a vital role in health-care policy, advocating for effective legislation that addresses the needs of patients and communities. Organizations such as the ANA empower nurses to engage in policy development and implementation, advocating for quality care and improved patient outcomes. For example, nurse-led initiatives have successfully influenced legislation to enhance access to mental health services and improve patient safety regulations.
In conclusion, understanding health-care policy and politics is crucial for nursing professionals. The historical context, structural dynamics, and policy processes reveal the complexities of health care in the U.S. Nurses must remain engaged in advocacy efforts to influence policies that promote health equity and improve care delivery systems.
References
Schmitt, M. H. (2018). Health Policy: A Practical Guide to Understanding and Navigating the U.S. Health Care System. New York: Springer Publishing Company.
American Nurses Association. (2020). Nursing: Scope and Standards of Practice (4th ed.). Silver Spring, MD: Author.