Discussion: Influencing Health and Social Policy
What are the unmet health care needs you see in your community? What determinants of health are related to these unmet needs and what determinants require action and advocacy efforts? How do your identified issues impact your work and your sphere of influence? Consider some of the following examples that affect communities: various needs of veterans (homelessness, post-traumatic stress), immigration, undocumented workers, medical and/or legalized marijuana, reproductive health care, unemployment, poor environmental conditions, limited access to health care, and lack of heath care. How do these issues impact community health and what is your role in the solution of these issues?
Post a response to the following:
• How do the determinants of health (as listed in the lead-in) impact the health of your community?
• How does a particular health determinant impact your practice? (You may choose to address a health determinant that is not listed.)
• As a nursing professional, what can you do about it?
• What are several ways that you can advocate for change in this area?
• Why might you choose to not get professionally involved in this area or in others like it?
The response should include a reference list. Double-space, using Times New Roman 12 pnt font, one-inch margins, and APA style of writing and citations.