. completing the readings, post a short reflection, approximately 1 paragraph in length (250 words), discussing your thoughts and opinions about one or several of the specific topics covered in the textbook readings pertaining to health policy and politics. Identify which MSN Essential most relates to your selected topic. Mason, D. J., Leavitt, J.K., Chaffee, M.W. (2016). Policy and Politics: In Nursing and Health Care. (7th• Ed) St. Louis, Missouri: Elsevier, Saunders. ISBN-13: 9780323299886 Publication Manual American Psychological Association (APA) (6th ed.). 2009 ISBN: 978-1-4338-0561-5 (Required)
Reflection on Health Policy and Politics in Nursing
After completing the readings from Mason, Leavitt, and Chaffee’s (2016) textbook on Policy and Politics in Nursing and Health Care, I would like to reflect on the topic of healthcare reform in the United States. This topic is highly relevant and presents a significant challenge in today’s healthcare system. The textbook provided a comprehensive overview of the various aspects of health policy and politics that impact healthcare reform, such as the role of government, stakeholders, and the policy-making process.
In examining the issue of healthcare reform, I found that it aligns closely with the MSN Essential VI: Interprofessional Collaboration for Improving Patient and Population Health Outcomes. This essential emphasizes the importance of collaborating with other healthcare professionals to promote health and improve patient outcomes. Healthcare reform requires the engagement of various stakeholders, including nurses, physicians, policymakers, and the general public, to address the complex and multifaceted issues in the healthcare system.
One of the key concepts discussed in the readings was the Affordable Care Act (ACA), also known as Obamacare. This landmark legislation aimed to expand access to healthcare, improve quality, and control costs. While the ACA has made significant strides in increasing the number of insured individuals, it has also faced criticism and challenges. The readings highlighted the contentious debates surrounding the ACA, including concerns about its affordability and sustainability.
Another topic that caught my attention was the Medicaid program. Medicaid plays a crucial role in providing healthcare coverage for low-income individuals and families. The readings discussed the expansion of Medicaid under the ACA and the variations in implementation across states. This topic relates to the MSN Essential VIII: Clinical Prevention and Population Health for Improving Health. Ensuring access to healthcare for vulnerable populations is essential in promoting population health and preventing adverse health outcomes.
Moreover, the readings shed light on the role of political action committees (PACs) and interest groups in shaping health policy. These groups influence policy decisions through lobbying and campaign contributions, often advocating for their own agendas. Understanding the influence of PACs and interest groups is crucial for nurses and other healthcare professionals to engage in effective advocacy and influence policy decisions in the interest of public health.
Overall, the readings on health policy and politics have provided me with a deeper understanding of the complexities and challenges in the healthcare system. It is clear that healthcare policy and politics play a crucial role in shaping the delivery, accessibility, and quality of healthcare services. As a future advanced practice nurse, it is essential for me to stay informed about current policy issues and actively engage in the policy-making process to advocate for the needs of patients and populations.
In conclusion, the topics covered in the textbook readings pertaining to healthcare policy and politics have been thought-provoking and enlightening. They have enhanced my understanding of the importance of interprofessional collaboration, the challenges of healthcare reform, and the influence of interest groups in shaping policy decisions. As a nurse, it is crucial for me to stay informed and actively participate in the policy-making process to promote positive changes in the healthcare system.