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.
The history, structure, and process of healthcare policy and politics in nursing and the healthcare delivery systems in the United States are complex and multifaceted. Understanding these aspects is crucial for nurses who play a significant role in shaping and implementing policies that impact patient care and outcomes.
History of Healthcare Policy in the United States
The history of healthcare policy in the United States is marked by significant milestones and shifts driven by social, economic, and political factors. Early 20th century reforms focused on public health and sanitation, leading to the establishment of agencies like the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The Social Security Act of 1935, which included provisions for public health, laid the groundwork for later programs like Medicare and Medicaid established in 1965 under President Lyndon B. Johnson. These programs significantly expanded access to healthcare for the elderly, low-income families, and disabled individuals.
The Affordable Care Act (ACA) of 2010, signed into law by President Barack Obama, marked a significant shift in healthcare policy. The ACA aimed to reduce the number of uninsured Americans, expand Medicaid, and introduce healthcare exchanges. It also emphasized preventive care and established protections for individuals with pre-existing conditions.
Structure of Healthcare Policy and Politics in Nursing
The structure of healthcare policy in the United States involves various stakeholders, including federal, state, and local governments, healthcare organizations, professional associations, and the public. At the federal level, agencies like the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) and the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) play pivotal roles in policy formulation and implementation. The legislative branch, through Congress, enacts laws that shape healthcare delivery, while the executive branch, through agencies and executive orders, oversees their implementation.
Nurses, through professional organizations such as the American Nurses Association (ANA), have a voice in healthcare policy. The ANA advocates for policies that support nursing practice, education, and research, ensuring that nurses are integral to policy development. Additionally, state nursing associations work on policies specific to their states, addressing local healthcare needs and challenges.
Process of Healthcare Policy Development and Implementation
The process of healthcare policy development involves several stages:
- Agenda Setting: Identifying issues that require government attention. Nurses play a crucial role in this stage by advocating for issues based on their clinical experience and research.
- Policy Formulation: Developing potential solutions and policies. Nurses contribute through research, expert testimony, and participation in policy committees.
- Policy Adoption: Policies are debated and enacted through legislative or executive actions. Nurses can influence this process by lobbying and working with legislators to ensure the nursing perspective is considered.
- Policy Implementation: Putting policies into action through regulations and programs. Nurses are often involved in this stage by participating in the development of guidelines and protocols to ensure effective implementation.
- Policy Evaluation: Assessing the impact of policies to determine their effectiveness. Nurses engage in research and data collection to provide evidence on the policy’s outcomes and suggest modifications if needed.
Role of Nurses in Health Policy and Politics
Nurses are essential in health policy and politics due to their unique perspective on patient care and the healthcare system. They advocate for policies that improve patient outcomes, increase access to care, and ensure the sustainability of healthcare systems. By participating in professional organizations, nurses can influence policy at various levels, from local to national.
Nurses also play a critical role in educating policymakers about the implications of health policies. Their firsthand experience with patients allows them to provide valuable insights into the practical aspects of healthcare delivery and the potential impact of proposed policies.
Conclusion
The history, structure, and process of healthcare policy and politics in the United States are integral to the functioning of the healthcare delivery system. Nurses, as frontline healthcare providers, have a significant role in shaping these policies to ensure they meet the needs of patients and improve healthcare outcomes. Through active involvement in professional organizations, advocacy, and policy development, nurses can influence the future of healthcare policy and contribute to a more effective and equitable healthcare system.
References
- American Nurses Association. (2020). Nursing: Scope and Standards of Practice (4th ed.). Silver Spring, MD: American Nurses Association.
- Shi, L., & Singh, D. A. (2019). Essentials of the U.S. Health Care System (5th ed.). Burlington, MA: Jones & Bartlett Learning.
- Milstead, J. A., & Short, N. M. (2019). Health Policy and Politics: A Nurse’s Guide (6th ed.). Burlington, MA: Jones & Bartlett Learning.