The Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (PPACA) was passed into legislation in March of 2010. Identify the impact of this legislation on your nursing practice by choosing two key nursing provisions outlined in the topic material “Nursing and Health Reform.” Discuss how these two provisions have impacted, or will impact, your current practice of nursing. Purchase the answer to view it
The Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (PPACA), also known as the Affordable Care Act (ACA) or Obamacare, is a significant legislation enacted in the United States in March 2010. This landmark healthcare reform aims to improve access to affordable healthcare and reshape the healthcare delivery system in the country. As a nursing professional, the PPACA has several implications for the practice of nursing. This essay will examine the impact of two key nursing provisions outlined in the topic material “Nursing and Health Reform” and discuss how these provisions have already influenced or will potentially impact the current practice of nursing.
One of the key nursing provisions under the ACA is the emphasis on preventive care. The ACA recognizes the importance of preventive care in promoting overall health and reducing healthcare costs. It provides coverage for certain preventive services and screenings without cost-sharing for all individuals with insurance coverage. This means that patients can receive preventive care services such as vaccinations, screenings for certain conditions, and counseling without having to pay any out-of-pocket expenses. This provision promotes early detection, prevention, and health promotion, which can ultimately lead to better health outcomes.
The impact of this provision on nursing practice is significant. Nurses play a crucial role in preventive care, as they are often the frontline healthcare professionals who educate and empower patients. With the emphasis on preventive care under the ACA, nurses are now more involved in providing education and counseling to patients about preventive measures. They help patients understand the importance of preventive screenings, vaccinations, and lifestyle modifications for maintaining optimal health. This provision has increased the demand for nursing professionals in primary care settings, wellness clinics, and community outreach programs.
Moreover, the ACA also encourages and supports the implementation of primary care medical homes (PCMH) and accountable care organizations (ACOs). PCMH is a team-based approach to primary healthcare delivery that focuses on comprehensive, coordinated, and patient-centered care. ACOs are groups of healthcare providers who come together to deliver coordinated care to patients and are accountable for achieving improved outcomes and cost savings. These models aim to promote effective care coordination, manage chronic diseases, and enhance healthcare quality.
The impact of these models on nursing practice is twofold. First, they create new opportunities for nurses to take on advanced roles and responsibilities. As part of a PCMH or ACO, nurses can function as care coordinators, case managers, nurse practitioners, or advanced practice nurses. They have the authority and autonomy to collaborate with other healthcare professionals, make decisions regarding patient care, and manage the health of a specific patient population. This expansion of nursing roles contributes to improved access to care, continuity of care, and enhanced patient outcomes.
Second, the implementation of PCMH and ACO models promotes interprofessional collaboration and teamwork. Nurses, physicians, pharmacists, social workers, and other healthcare professionals work together as a cohesive unit to provide holistic and patient-centered care. This collaborative approach not only improves patient outcomes but also creates a more supportive and inclusive work environment for healthcare professionals. Nurses can share their knowledge, expertise, and perspectives with the interdisciplinary team, leading to more effective care delivery and problem-solving.
In conclusion, the PPACA has had a significant impact on the practice of nursing through various provisions. The emphasis on preventive care has increased the role of nurses in educating and empowering patients about preventive measures and has expanded opportunities for nurses in primary care and wellness settings. The promotion of PCMH and ACO models has provided nurses with advanced roles and responsibilities, fostering interprofessional collaboration and improved patient outcomes. As the ACA continues to be implemented and evolves, it is essential for nurses to stay informed and adapt to the changing healthcare landscape to provide optimal care to their patients.