This week, we will share what we have learned over the past 8 weeks while examining health policies for your particular project. Please share with the class the issue you selected, what the three possible policy options were, and which one you ultimately chose and why. Discuss the role of the master’s prepared nurse and other key players in this health policy.
Running head: EMPOWERING PATIENTS
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Empowering Patients
Vinsetta Buford
American Military University
HCAD 501: Technology Applications in Healthcare Organizations
Dr. Jeremy Howell
14 August 2023
EMPOWERING PATIENTS
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Empowering Patients
I am reminded of the riveting story of e-Patient Dave deBronkart when I consider the
transformational impact of the internet and online tools in changing the patient dynamic. His
experience is a powerful example of how patients’ access to knowledge and their subsequent
feeling of empowerment may lead to a revolution in healthcare (Dave deBronkart: Meet epatient dave 2011). The advantages of people managing their healthcare are best shown by
Dave’s path from having a near-death experience to being an outspoken supporter of patient
participation.
In the past, the word “patient” often evoked the idea of a passive individual constrained to
the position of a beneficiary of medical treatment. However, the introduction of the internet has
changed this perspective, allowing individuals to take an active role in their healthcare (Van de
Wetering & Versendaal, 2021). This transition was personally shown by Dave, who used web
research to learn about his medical condition. He used the internet to access trustworthy
resources like WebMD and interact with patient networks, gathering knowledge and asking
questions of individuals who had experienced similar difficulties. Dave could debate medical
advice, make choices about his treatment, and fight for his well-being because of his access to a
multitude of knowledge (Dave deBronkart: Meet e-patient dave 2011).
The growth of online patient communities, like the one Dave discovered on ACOR.org, is
evidence of the advantages of patients acting as more educated and involved consumers. These
online communities provide a forum for exchanging knowledge, viewpoints, and emotional
support. Patients may receive first-person stories of treatment alternatives, results, and
difficulties without following typical medical gatekeepers. This shared understanding enables
people to interrogate claims, get second views, and work with medical specialists (Johansson et
EMPOWERING PATIENTS
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al., 2021). Dave’s experience demonstrated the importance of patients sharing information since
it resulted in suggestions for a treatment strategy he would not have heard about.
The idea of patients acting as their health advocates takes center stage in e-Patient Dave’s
story. Dave’s drive to get his medical records and have open conversations with his doctors
shows how empowered people may oppose the status quo. His admonition to “Let patients help”
rings accurate as a request to medical professionals to accept patients as equal participants in
decision-making (Dave deBronkart: Meet e-patient dave 2011). The advocacy effort of Regina
Holliday, as shown in Dave’s tale, is a perfect example of how patients who are given the
capacity to influence change may do so. Holliday leveraged her struggle into a more
considerable appeal for openness and patient-centered care by utilizing art to emphasize the
significance of readily available medical data.
However, there are possible drawbacks to consider besides the beneficial changes. Since
the internet has democratized access to information, not all sources are trustworthy or truthful.
Patients need to be informed consumers who can differentiate between information from reliable
sources and false information. The risk of incorrect diagnosis or interpretation based on internet
information highlights the need for careful information intake. It can also be challenging to
balance patient input and medical knowledge if patients become increasingly involved and selfadvocating (Langford et al., 2020). Although patients’ views are priceless, medical experts also
have specialized knowledge essential for precise diagnosis and therapy. Ideal patient insights and
medical knowledge should be combined to create a harmonious relationship between patients
and healthcare professionals.
In conclusion, e-Patient Dave’s tale is a fascinating illustration of how the internet and
online tools have transformed the patient-provider relationship. Patients are far more empowered
EMPOWERING PATIENTS
than they were in the past because of access to information, participation in online groups, and
advocacy for their health. The experiences of Dave and others like him, who have utilized their
personal experiences to promote better healthcare procedures, demonstrate the advantages of
patients becoming more active and knowledgeable consumers. This change also emphasizes the
need for a balanced relationship between patients and medical providers and discernment while
browsing internet material. E-Patient Dave’s story is a sad reminder that the patient’s voice
should not be undervalued as we traverse the digital healthcare era and that a collaborative
approach is the key to a more patient-centered and efficient healthcare system.
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EMPOWERING PATIENTS
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References
Johansson, V., Islind, A. S., Lindroth, T., Angenete, E., & Gellerstedt, M. (2021). Online
communities as a driver for patient empowerment: Systematic review. Journal of medical
Internet research, 23(2), e19910.
Langford, A. T., Roberts, T., Gupta, J., Orellana, K. T., & Loeb, S. (2020). Impact of the internet
on patient-physician communication. European Urology Focus, 6(3), 440–444.
TED. (2011, July 1). Dave deBronkart: Meet e-patient dave. YouTube. https://youtu.be/oTxvicNnAM
Van de Wetering, R., & Versendaal, J. (2021). Information technology ambidexterity, digital
dynamic capability, and knowledge processes as enablers of patient agility: Empirical
study. JMIRx Med, 2(4), e32336.
Running head: WEIGHING THE OUTCOMES
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Weighing the Outcomes
Vinsetta Buford
American Military University
NURS505: Healthcare Systems and Health Policy
Dr. Michelle Lenox
20 August 2023
WEIGHING THE OUTCOMES
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Weighing the Outcomes
Texas’s mental health crisis has pushed decision-makers to consider various approaches
to the pressing problem. The proposed regulations detailed in the Week 5 assignment are meant
to change the state’s mental health treatment system. However, it becomes clear that the degree
of improvement or aggravation differs between policies and the evaluation criteria discussed in
the Week 6 assignment (Hellebuyck et al., 2018). These strategies include boosting funding for
mental health services, setting up telemedicine initiatives, and incorporating mental health
education into K–12 curricula.
A strategy of greater funding for mental health treatment might significantly improve the
dismal status of mental health services in Texas. This strategy aims to improve accessibility,
quality, and de-stigmatization of mental health care by putting more resources into mental health
institutions and expert recruiting. However, difficulties arise when affordability, efficiency, and
equality are considered. While additional financing may improve patient outcomes and lessen
stigma, it is crucial to use the money wisely. A careful balance of growth and service quality is
required since increased demand may strain the resources available. Furthermore, it continues to
be difficult to distribute resources equally to disadvantaged areas (Kuehn, 2022). The ability to
effectively regulate demand, dispersal, and equal access is essential to the success of this
program.
Initiatives in telemedicine are promising to provide access to mental health services to
rural and disadvantaged communities. Telemedicine could improve access to treatment and early
interventions by reducing obstacles caused by distance and transportation. The efficiency and
accessibility requirements are well-aligned with this strategy. However, the infrastructure of
technology and the capacity to guarantee inclusion across socioeconomic strata determine its
WEIGHING THE OUTCOMES
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efficacy. Although telemedicine offers the possibility of a broad reach, worries about the digital
divide and exclusion brought on by technology continue (Hellebuyck et al., 2018). To avoid
unintentionally making the situation worse, privacy concerns, inaccurate diagnoses, and tailored
treatments should also be carefully handled. This program’s effectiveness will largely depend on
how well it strikes a balance between technical sophistication, accessibility, and care quality.
A proactive approach to developing an educated and caring society is integrating mental
health education into the K–12 curriculum. This program may reduce the stigma associated with
mental illness by focusing on young people at an early age, allowing early identification, and
encouraging a culture of asking for help (Hellebuyck et al., 2018). The policy meets the
requirements for acceptability, practicality, and prevention. However, issues with curricular
integration, educator preparation, and efficient information distribution continue to exist. Policy
success is defined by equal student access to high-quality mental health education. Balance
complexity and information; consider sustainability, finances, and flexible curricula for shifting
trends.
Texas is at a turning point in addressing the mental health crisis when careful policy
implementation might result in significant advancements or unintended consequences. While
increasing funding, telemedicine, and mental health education have much promise, their effects
depend on complex factors. The potential success of any policy is influenced by its costeffectiveness, applicability, practicability, and alignment with public beliefs. A thorough strategy
considering these regulations’ complex interactions and ramifications is crucial as Texas
navigates these unknown seas. Texas can pave the way toward a more robust, open, and
welcoming mental healthcare environment for its citizens by strategically evaluating, adapting,
and assessing continuous progress.
WEIGHING THE OUTCOMES
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References
Hellebuyck, M., Halpern, M., Nguyen, T., & Fritze, D. (2018). The state of mental health in
America. Mental Health America. Retrieved from www. mentalhealthamerica. net.
Mental Health, 2021-01.
Kuehn, B. M. (2022). Clinician shortage exacerbates pandemic-fueled “mental health
crisis”. JAMA, 327(22), 2179-2181.
Running head: EVALUATIVE CRITERIA
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Evaluative Criteria
Vinsetta Buford
American Military University
NURS505: Healthcare Systems and Health Policy
Dr. Michelle Lenox
14 August 2023
EVALUATIVE CRITERIA
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Evaluative Criteria
Texas is experiencing a crisis in mental health, and many people find it difficult to get the
treatment and assistance they need. Several policies have been suggested to deal with this
problem. Effectiveness, efficiency, equality, acceptability, feasibility, affordability, legality, and
accountability are the eight-evaluation criteria Collins (2005) stated for evaluating health
programs. This essay evaluates the three recommended approaches for tackling the mental health
epidemic in Texas based on these criteria.
Increased financing for mental health care was the first policy. Increasing access to
treatment and improving outcomes for people with mental health issues are both expected
consequences of this approach. It could also be effective if the monies are distributed in a
manner that optimizes their impact. However, how the money is allocated and whether it reaches
underprivileged communities will determine how equitable this program is. Depending on how
people feel about spending on the government and mental health, this approach may or may not
be deemed acceptable (Wells et al., 2019). This policy’s viability and cost depend on the money’s
availability and politicians’ willingness to devote it to mental health care. This policy’s
legitimacy would be governed by the existing laws and rules regarding healthcare financing.
Finally, in order to guarantee that the monies are used appropriately, accountability procedures
need to be implemented.
The development of telemedicine programs was the second policy that was suggested.
For those living in distant or underdeveloped locations, this strategy may help increase access to
healthcare. Additionally, it might be effective by cutting expenditures and travel time for patients
and physicians. Whether telemedicine services are available to everyone, regardless of region or
socioeconomic position, would determine how equitable this policy is. Whether or not the public
EVALUATIVE CRITERIA
3
will embrace this approach depends on how they feel about technology and virtual healthcare.
This policy’s viability and cost depend on the infrastructure and technology required for
telemedicine initiatives. The telemedicine-related laws and rules in effect when this policy was
implemented, would determine its legality (Collins, 2005). To make sure that telemedicine
services are provided securely and efficiently, accountability mechanisms need to be put in
place.
Mandatory integration of mental health education programs in the K–12 curriculum was
the third suggested proposal. This strategy may raise young people’s knowledge of and
comprehension of mental health concerns. It could also be effective by offering services for early
intervention and prevention. Whether or not all pupils have access to top-notch mental health
education programs determines how equitable this approach is. Depending on how the general
public feels about mental health education and the role schools play in delivering it, this
approach may or may not be deemed acceptable (Wells et al., 2019). The sustainability of school
mental health programs is impacted by funding and resources. Regulations in the curriculum
affect their legality. Measures of accountability are essential for successful implementation and
performance.
In conclusion, the three suggested measures may help with Texas’s mental health issue.
However, their success will determine how they are put into practice and assessed using the
author’s established criteria. When implementing these policies, it is crucial to consider elements
like efficacy, efficiency, equality, acceptability, feasibility, affordability, legality, and
accountability. Further study is required to identify the best tactics for enhancing mental health
outcomes in Texas. Individuals may endeavor to develop long-term solutions to the mental
health issue in Texas by carefully analyzing these factors and performing further studies.
EVALUATIVE CRITERIA
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References
Collins, T. (2005). Health policy analysis: A simple tool for policymakers. Public Health, pp.
119, 192–196.
Wells, R., Breckenridge, E. D., Ajaz, S., Narayan, A., Brossart, D., Zahniser, J. H., &
Rasmussen, J. (2019). Integrating primary care into community mental health centres in
Texas, USA: Results of a case study investigation. International Journal of Integrated
Care, 19(4).
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