Identify three major policy issues that affect the current state of health care delivery and population health equity in the United States.

Identify three major policy issues that affect the current state of health care delivery and population health equity in the United States.

What impact do these population health policies and initiatives have on advanced nursing practice?

ANSWER

The Impact of Population Health Policies on Advanced Nursing Practice: Addressing Three Major Policy Issues Affecting Health Care Delivery and Equity in the United States

Introduction

Healthcare delivery and population health equity are critical aspects of a well-functioning healthcare system. In the United States, several policy issues significantly influence these domains. This essay examines three major policy issues that affect the current state of healthcare delivery and population health equity: access to care, health insurance coverage, and social determinants of health. Additionally, it explores the impact of these population health policies and initiatives on advanced nursing practice.

Access to Care

 Access to care is a fundamental policy issue that directly affects healthcare delivery and population health equity. Many individuals face barriers that prevent them from accessing timely and appropriate healthcare services. Factors such as geographical location, lack of health facilities, and limited healthcare providers in underserved areas contribute to disparities in access to care. Advanced nursing practice plays a crucial role in bridging this gap by providing primary care services, particularly in rural and underserved communities (National Academies Press (US), 2018). Nurse practitioners (NPs) and advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs) are equipped with the skills and knowledge to offer comprehensive care, improve healthcare access, and enhance population health equity. Through advanced nursing practice, policies that promote the expansion of scope of practice for NPs and APRNs can help increase access to care and mitigate health disparities.

Health Insurance Coverage

Health insurance coverage is a pivotal policy issue that influences healthcare delivery and population health equity. In the United States, the lack of comprehensive and affordable health insurance often leads to individuals delaying or forgoing necessary medical care. This can result in adverse health outcomes and exacerbate existing health disparities. Advanced nursing practice can help address this issue by advocating for policies that promote affordable and accessible health insurance options (National Academies Press (US), 2002). Nurse leaders and advanced practice nurses can engage in health policy discussions, collaborate with policymakers, and contribute their expertise to shape healthcare reform efforts. By actively participating in the development and implementation of policies related to health insurance coverage, advanced nursing practice can improve the health outcomes of individuals and communities, particularly those who are medically underserved.

Social Determinants of Health

Social determinants of health, such as socioeconomic status, education, employment, and housing, significantly impact population health equity. Policies targeting social determinants of health aim to address the root causes of health disparities and promote equitable access to resources and opportunities. Advanced nursing practice can play a crucial role in addressing social determinants of health through community-based interventions, health promotion, and disease prevention programs (National Academies Press (US), 2017). By collaborating with interdisciplinary teams and community organizations, advanced practice nurses can advocate for policies that address social determinants of health and promote health equity. This may involve initiatives related to affordable housing, income support, educational opportunities, and access to healthy food. By addressing social determinants of health, advanced nursing practice can contribute to the overall improvement of population health and reduce health disparities.

Conclusion

Access to care, health insurance coverage, and social determinants of health are three major policy issues that significantly impact the current state of healthcare delivery and population health equity in the United States. Advanced nursing practice plays a pivotal role in addressing these issues by advocating for policies that improve access to care, promote affordable health insurance coverage, and target social determinants of health. By actively engaging in health policy discussions and collaborating with other stakeholders, advanced practice nurses can enhance population health outcomes and contribute to the achievement of equitable healthcare for all.

References

National Academies Press (US). (2017, January 11). The Root Causes of Health Inequity. Communities in Action – NCBI Bookshelf. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK425845/ 

National Academies Press (US). (2018, March 1). Factors That Affect Health-Care Utilization. Health-Care Utilization as a Proxy in Disability Determination – NCBI Bookshelf. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK500097/ 

National Academies Press (US). (2002). Effects of Health Insurance on Health. Care Without Coverage – NCBI Bookshelf. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK220636/