Analyze the history, structure, and process of health-care-policy and politics in nursing and the health care delivery systems in the United States.
Submission Instructions:
Your initial post should be at least 500 words, formatted and cited in current APA style with support from at least 2 academic sources.
### Analysis of the History, Structure, and Process of Health-Care Policy and Politics in Nursing and Health Care Delivery Systems in the United States
#### History of Health-Care Policy and Politics in Nursing
The history of health-care policy and politics in nursing in the United States is deeply intertwined with the broader development of the health care delivery system. The early 20th century saw the establishment of professional nursing organizations such as the American Nurses Association (ANA), which played a crucial role in advocating for nurses’ professional standards, education, and working conditions. The ANA’s advocacy efforts were instrumental in the passage of the Social Security Act of 1935, which laid the groundwork for modern health care policy by providing federal funding for public health programs and services.
Post-World War II, the Hill-Burton Act of 1946 facilitated the expansion of hospitals across the country, significantly impacting the nursing profession by increasing the demand for nurses. In the 1960s, the establishment of Medicare and Medicaid under the Social Security Amendments of 1965 marked a significant shift in health-care policy, providing health insurance to millions of elderly and low-income Americans. These programs not only increased access to care but also highlighted the need for a more significant nursing workforce and better training and education standards.
#### Structure of Health-Care Policy and Politics in Nursing
The structure of health-care policy and politics in nursing involves multiple stakeholders, including federal and state governments, professional nursing organizations, health care institutions, and educational bodies. At the federal level, agencies such as the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) and the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) play pivotal roles in shaping health care policies that impact nursing practice and education.
Professional organizations like the ANA, the National League for Nursing (NLN), and the American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN) advocate for policies that promote the nursing profession, such as funding for nursing education, research, and workforce development. These organizations also work to influence legislation related to patient care standards, nursing scope of practice, and workplace safety.
State governments regulate nursing practice through state boards of nursing, which establish licensure requirements, scope of practice, and disciplinary actions. State-level policies can vary significantly, impacting how nurses practice and the roles they can perform within different states.
#### Process of Health-Care Policy Development
The process of health-care policy development in the United States is complex and multifaceted, involving legislative, regulatory, and advocacy efforts. The policy development process typically begins with identifying a problem or need within the health care system, followed by the formulation of potential solutions or policy proposals.
Legislative bodies, such as Congress at the federal level and state legislatures, introduce and debate bills that address health care issues. Once a bill is passed by both legislative bodies, it is sent to the executive branch for approval and enactment. Regulatory agencies then develop detailed rules and guidelines to implement the new law.
Nursing organizations play a critical role in the policy development process through advocacy and lobbying efforts. They provide expert testimony, conduct research to support policy initiatives, and mobilize their members to engage in grassroots advocacy. Nurses, as frontline health care providers, offer valuable insights into the practical implications of health care policies, making their involvement essential for effective policy development.
#### Impact on Health Care Delivery Systems
Health care policies and politics significantly impact health care delivery systems in the United States. Policies related to health care financing, such as Medicare and Medicaid reimbursement rates, influence the availability and quality of health care services. Regulatory requirements, such as those set by the Joint Commission and the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), ensure that health care institutions adhere to safety and quality standards, impacting patient care and outcomes.
Policies promoting interdisciplinary collaboration and team-based care have led to the development of integrated health care delivery models, such as accountable care organizations (ACOs) and patient-centered medical homes (PCMHs). These models aim to improve care coordination, enhance patient outcomes, and reduce health care costs by fostering collaboration among health care providers, including nurses.
#### Conclusion
The history, structure, and process of health-care policy and politics in nursing and health care delivery systems in the United States are dynamic and complex. Understanding these elements is crucial for nurses to effectively advocate for their profession and contribute to the development of policies that improve patient care and health outcomes. As health care continues to evolve, the role of nurses in shaping health care policy and delivery systems will remain essential.
### References
– American Nurses Association. (2021). History. Retrieved from [ANA](https://www.nursingworld.org/ana/about-ana/history/)
– Shi, L., & Singh, D. A. (2020). *Essentials of the U.S. Health Care System*. Jones & Bartlett Learning.
– Mason, D. J., Gardner, D. B., Outlaw, F. H., & O’Grady, E. T. (2020). *Policy & Politics in Nursing and Health Care*. Elsevier Health Sciences.
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