Assignment task:
In my community, I have observed several health disparities, particularly affecting minority populations, low-income families, and the elderly. These disparities often stem from socioeconomic factors and a lack of resources, resulting in limited access to essential healthcare services. Barriers such as transportation issues, high healthcare costs, and limited healthcare providers in rural areas contribute to these inequalities.
As a professional nurse, I believe we play a vital role in helping to reduce these disparities. By addressing the following barriers, we can work towards making healthcare more equitable:
1. Accessibility: Many patients, especially those living in rural or underserved areas, face challenges accessing healthcare facilities due to transportation limitations. As nurses, we can advocate for telehealth services, which allow patients to receive care without the need to travel long distances. In addition, partnering with community organizations to provide transportation assistance can improve access to essential services.
2. Affordability: The high cost of healthcare often prevents individuals from seeking medical attention, even when needed. Nurses can assist by helping patients navigate insurance options, including Medicaid and Medicare, and connecting them with programs that offer financial assistance. By educating patients on preventative care, we can reduce the overall cost burden by minimizing the need for expensive emergency care.
3. Awareness: A lack of awareness about available healthcare services is a significant barrier for many individuals, particularly those from marginalized communities. Nurses can engage in outreach programs, working with community leaders to educate people about their healthcare options. By increasing health literacy and promoting awareness of services, we can empower individuals to take charge of their health.
100-word response to this post.
Some of the barriers I have noticed in my community, such as affordability, acceptability, and approachability, have a profound personal impact. These barriers affect not only my community but also communities worldwide. It is deeply troubling to see these healthcare barriers preventing people from accessing care for themselves or their loved ones. Affordability, acceptability, and approachability are just a few examples of health disparities that have become healthcare barriers (Purnell, 2013).
As a professional nurse, I am committed to reducing affordability as a healthcare obstacle. I do this by sharing healthcare financial resources on social media and in person, empowering individuals with the knowledge they need to access care. Furthermore, by educating people about their health, such as the importance of regular check-ups and healthy lifestyle choices, I aim to increase their awareness and empower them to take control of their health, thereby improving their overall well-being.
Acceptability significantly impacts a variety of people, such as the blind, deaf, non-English speakers, and the elderly. As a nurse, I have sadly witnessed these communication barriers affecting many people with different needs. To reduce this health disparity, I would ensure that other communication benefits are being offered, such as language interpreters and signers. I would also establish translated paperwork to the patient's preferred language as well as large, bold letters so people who have trouble seeing the paper information can see it better. These improvements will positively impact patients wanting to be accepted in the healthcare system.
Lastly, patients are sometimes judged too quickly because of their appearance. People who do not look how they should look are sometimes looked down on; therefore, approachability becomes a healthcare barrier. As a professional nurse, I would emphasize the importance of empathy and understanding in healthcare. Nonverbal communication speaks louder than verbal communication. I would create a more delightful and receiving atmosphere for patients. The way we look at someone or speak to someone makes a huge impact on someone's self-esteem. Treating others with kindness and respect does not take anything from you, so be kind.