Public Policy
"To participate in, and contribute to, the policy process" the following three artifacts exemplefy this component by addressing significant challenges within the healthcare sector and the Social Security system in the United States. The first artifact focuses on healthcare access disparity and emphasizes the need for urgent public policy actions to ensure equitable access to healthcare for all U.S citizens. The second artifact is a research paper on drug addiction in licensed nurses and looks at policy process by recommending interventions to protect both nurses' well-being and public health. The third artifact is a presentation on the challenges the Social Security system is facing and highlights the importance of implementing public policy changes to address the system's financial sustainability.
Healthcare Access Disparity in the United States
This memo highlights the issues of healthcare access disparity in the United States, explaining the challenges millions of Americans face in obtaining medical services. Despite advancements in technology and medicine, a big portion of the population still lacks sufficient health insurance coverage. Rural areas are particularly affected, experiencing shortages of healthcare providers and facilities, alongside increasing medical costs throughout the country. The high expenditure on healthcare, lack of effective regulation of pharmacutical companies, worsen the problem, leaving many struggling to afford lifesaving medications. These issues create systemic inequalities and plague the nation's overall health and well-being. Urgent public policy actions are needed to address these challenges and ensure equitable access to healthcare for all U.S citizens.
Drug Addiction in Licensed Nurses
Drug addiction among licensed nurses can be a significant challenge in the healthcare sector, posing risks not only to their own well-being but also to patient safety and public health. This research paper delves into the complexities of drug abuse among registered nurses (RNs) and licensed practical nurses (LPNs) from a public administration standpoint. Drawing insights from internship experience at the New Jersey State Board of Nursing and extensive literature review, the paper explores the root causes and consequences of drug abuse in nursing professionals. With a focus on understanding the factors contributing to nurse substance abuse, such as job stress and accessibility to drugs, the paper highlights the need for proactive measures within the field of public administration to address this escalating problem. Recommendations include implementing substance abuse education, counseling, and mandatory drug testing to protect both nurses' well-being and public health. By bringing the gap between healthcare and public administration, this research aims to promote public policy changes to combat drug addiction in the nursing profession.
Social Security is Facing a Future Budget Shortfall
This presentation looks into the critical aspects of the Social Security system in the United States, highlighting its significance and the challenges it faces. With 163 million contributors and 59 million beneficiaries, Social Security is huge financial source for many Americans. However, factors such as a decreasing worker-benefit ratio, and the aging population have contributed to a budget shortfall. Without intervention, the gap between costs and revenue will continue to widen, threatening the long term sustainability of Social Security. The scope of this decision effects all US citizens and highlighting the importance of implementing public policy changes measures to address this pressing issue.