Complete this week’s assigned readings, chapters 39-43.(2 of the topics for these chapters were -how the economy related to government issues impacts the health care in our population and veterans healthcare administration. After completing the readings, post a short reflection, approximately 2 paragraphs in length, discussing your thoughts and opinions about one or several of the specific topics covered in the textbook readings. Identify which MSN Essential most relates to your selected topic in your discussion (Health Policy and Advocacy, Essential # VI)
The assigned readings for this week covered chapters 39-43, which focused on the relationship between the economy, government issues, and healthcare. One of the specific topics discussed in these chapters was how the economy impacts the healthcare of our population. It is widely recognized that the economic conditions of a country or region have a significant impact on the availability and quality of healthcare services provided to the population. When the economy is doing well, the government can allocate more resources towards healthcare and improve access to healthcare services. On the other hand, during economic downturns, the government may face budget constraints, which can lead to reduced healthcare funding and ultimately affect the health outcomes of the population.
One point that stood out to me from the readings was the concept of healthcare disparities that can arise due to the economy. In times of economic crisis, vulnerable populations, such as those with low incomes or lacking health insurance, are particularly at risk of experiencing limited access to healthcare. This can lead to disparities in health outcomes between different socioeconomic groups. For example, individuals with lower incomes may delay seeking medical care or have difficulty affording necessary medications, resulting in poorer health outcomes compared to those with higher incomes. This issue highlights the importance of addressing economic factors in healthcare policy and advocacy efforts to ensure equitable access to care for all individuals, regardless of their socioeconomic status.
This topic is closely related to the MSN Essential # VI: Health Policy and Advocacy. As advanced practice nurses, it is crucial for us to be aware of the influence of socioeconomic factors on health and advocate for policies that promote equitable access to healthcare. By understanding how the economy impacts healthcare, we can contribute to the development and implementation of policies that aim to reduce healthcare disparities and promote population health.
Another topic discussed in the readings was the healthcare administration for veterans. The chapter provided insights into the unique challenges faced by the Veterans Health Administration (VHA) in delivering healthcare services to the veteran population. One key issue highlighted was the increasing demand for healthcare services due to the aging veteran population and the need for sustainable funding to meet this demand. The VHA faces both financial and resource constraints, necessitating innovative approaches to delivering cost-effective and high-quality care to veterans.
One aspect that caught my attention was the emphasis on patient-centered care within the VHA. The readings discussed how the VHA has been striving to implement patient-centered medical homes and team-based care models to enhance the overall patient experience and improve health outcomes. These efforts align with the MSN Essential # VI: Health Policy and Advocacy, as it recognizes the importance of patient-centered care and emphasizes the role of advanced practice nurses in advocating for patient-centered policies and practices.
In conclusion, the readings highlighted the significant influence of the economy and government issues on healthcare. The impact of the economy on healthcare can lead to healthcare disparities and inequitable access to care. On the other hand, the administration of healthcare for veterans presents its own unique challenges, including the need for sustainable funding and the implementation of patient-centered care models. These topics resonate with the MSN Essential # VI: Health Policy and Advocacy, as advocating for equitable access to care and promoting patient-centered care are essential aspects of advanced nursing practice.