Assignment 2: Policy And Client Impact Development
Assignment 2 Policy And Client Impact Developmentfor This Assignment
Assignment 2: Policy and Client Impact Development For this assignment, you are expected to identify a sub-population within the field agency, then research and discuss with your field coordinator the state and federal policies that may impact the identified clients. Finally, discuss if there is a possibility for you to advocate on behalf of those clients. By Day 7 Submit a 2-3 page paper in which you: Identify the subpopulation (Substance Abuse in Cal) Identify State and federal policies and discuss their impact on the clients identified Provide suggestions for the agency (Good Seed Drop-In Center, Long Beach, Ca.) Discuss possibilities to advocate for the clients
Paper For Above instruction
The role of policies at both state and federal levels plays a critical role in shaping the services, support mechanisms, and overall wellbeing of vulnerable sub-populations within society. In this paper, I will focus on substance abuse in California, specifically examining how policies impact clients engaged in substance abuse and exploring advocacy options within the context of the Good Seed Drop-In Center in Long Beach, California.
Identification of the Sub-population: Substance Abuse in California
The sub-population I have identified is individuals struggling with substance abuse issues in California. This demographic includes a diverse group ranging from adolescents to older adults, often facing barriers such as homelessness, unemployment, mental health challenges, and social stigmatization. According to the California Department of Public Health (CDPH), substance use disorder (SUD) affects thousands of Californians annually, with opioids and methamphetamines being among the most prevalent substances of abuse (CDPH, 2022). Many of these individuals seek help through community-based organizations like the Good Seed Drop-In Center, which provides immediate support, outreach, and recovery resources.
Impact of State and Federal Policies on Clients
Federal Policies and Their Effects
Federal policies significantly influence how substance abuse is addressed nationwide. A notable example is the Affordable Care Act (ACA), which expanded Medicaid coverage to include more individuals with SUD, thus increasing access to treatment services (Bachhuber et al., 2014). Additionally, the Drug Addiction Treatment Act of 2000 (DATA 2000) allows qualified physicians to prescribe buprenorphine for opioid use disorder, a crucial component in harm reduction strategies (Jones et al., 2015). Despite these policies, barriers such as limited provider capacity and stigma often hinder optimal treatment access (SAMHSA, 2021).
State Policies and Their Impact
California has enacted various laws to combat substance abuse, including Proposition 47, which reclassified certain non-violent drug offenses from felonies to misdemeanors, thereby reducing incarceration rates and redirecting resources toward treatment and prevention (California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation, 2020). Moreover, California’s Mental Health Services Act (MHSA) funds community-based programs for mental health and substance use treatment, fostering a more integrated approach (California Department of Health Care Services, 2018).
However, despite these policies, gaps remain. For instance, funding limitations often restrict the capacity of centers like Good Seed to provide comprehensive care. Additionally, restrictions around prescribing practices and insurance reimbursements can limit treatment options for clients, especially those in low-income brackets (California Behavioral Health Planning Council, 2020).
Recommendations for the Agency
To improve client outcomes, the Good Seed Drop-In Center should advocate for increased funding and resources to expand treatment programs, including medication-assisted treatment (MAT). Collaborating with local health departments and policymakers can facilitate the development of targeted programs tailored to the specific needs of Long Beach’s substance-using population.
Furthermore, implementing peer support programs and outreach efforts can enhance engagement among clients hesitant to seek help due to stigma or previous negative experiences. Establishing partnerships with medical providers authorized to prescribe MAT can also increase access to evidence-based treatments.
Possibilities for Advocacy
As a practitioner, there are multiple avenues to advocate for clients. Raising awareness about barriers faced by clients at community forums and engaging with policymakers can influence more supportive legislation. Advocating for expanded Medicaid coverage and increased funding for addiction treatment programs can significantly improve service delivery. Additionally, efforts to reduce stigma through public education campaigns can foster a more accepting environment for individuals seeking help.
By participating in policy discussions, organizing community outreach initiatives, and collaborating with stakeholders, practitioners can contribute to systemic change that benefits clients. Empowering clients through education about their rights and available resources is another critical advocacy strategy.
Conclusion
Policies at the federal and state levels substantially impact individuals struggling with substance abuse in California. While existing policies have made strides in expanding access and reducing incarceration, gaps remain that hinder optimal support for clients. Community-based organizations like Good Seed plays a vital role in addressing these disparities through advocacy, resource expansion, and service innovation. Through targeted advocacy efforts, practitioners and organizations can work towards creating a more equitable and effective system that prioritizes recovery, dignity, and holistic wellbeing for individuals with substance use disorders.
References
- Bachhuber, M. A., et al. (2014). "Expansion of Medicaid and Substance Use Disorder Treatment." American Journal of Public Health, 104(12), 2328-2333.
- California Behavioral Health Planning Council. (2020). "Annual Report on Substance Use Treatment." Sacramento, CA.
- California Department of Health Care Services. (2018). "Mental Health Services Act Annual Report." Sacramento, CA.
- California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation. (2020). "Impact of Proposition 47." Sacramento, CA.
- California Department of Public Health. (2022). "Substance Use Indicators in California." Sacramento, CA.
- Jones, C. M., et al. (2015). "Pharmacotherapy for Opioid Use Disorder." The New England Journal of Medicine, 376(7), 663-673.
- Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA). (2021). "Behavioral Health Barriers in Practice." Rockville, MD.