Discussion Reflection Response: Ethical Dilemma After Review

Discussion Reflection Response Ethical Dilemmaafter Reviewingthe Inv

After reviewing "The Invisible Patients" documentary, this reflection explores the pertinent ethical dilemmas faced by nurse practitioners (NPs) and the implications of disruptive innovation within healthcare. The film highlights the challenges of addressing underserved or overlooked patient populations, often marginalized by traditional healthcare systems. In particular, the NP featured in the documentary exemplifies a disruptive innovator, utilizing novel approaches to reach and care for populations that standard medical models fail to serve.

Disruptive innovation, as introduced by Clayton Christensen, refers to new technologies or solutions that disrupt existing markets or practices, often by serving previously neglected segments with more accessible, affordable, or effective approaches. The NP in the documentary embodies this concept by developing innovative outreach methods—such as mobile clinics, community engagement programs, or telehealth initiatives—that challenge conventional healthcare delivery models. Her efforts permeate gaps in access, offering crucial services to the invisible patients who otherwise might remain unaided. These actions symbolize a disruptive change because they shift the paradigm from centralized, hospital-based care to flexible, community-oriented strategies that can reach vulnerable populations.

Reflecting personally, I recognize a strong alignment between my core values of compassion, equity, and social justice and the ethical barriers depicted in the documentary. My belief that healthcare should be a fundamental human right motivates me to advocate for equitable access, regardless of socioeconomic status, cultural background, or geographic location. The ethical dilemma arises when the healthcare system, intentionally or unintentionally, excludes or neglects certain groups, creating barriers that deny them essential care. Personally, I find it ethically imperative to challenge such barriers and support initiatives that promote inclusivity and prevent marginalization. This aligns with my conviction that healthcare providers have a moral responsibility to serve all populations and promote health equity.

One mechanism to overcome these barriers involves fostering collaboration among healthcare providers, community organizations, and policymakers to develop sustainable outreach programs. This could include establishing mobile clinics, leveraging telehealth technologies, or partnering with community leaders to build trust and facilitate access. Training healthcare professionals in cultural competence and health advocacy can further dismantle systemic barriers rooted in bias or lack of awareness. Additionally, integrating social determinants of health into clinical assessments ensures a more holistic approach, addressing not only medical conditions but also the social factors that influence health outcomes.

The potential costs and benefits of overcoming these barriers are multifaceted. Financially, implementing innovative outreach strategies requires initial investments in technology, training, and infrastructure. However, the long-term benefits include reduced disparities in health outcomes, decreased emergency room visits, and lower overall healthcare costs by emphasizing preventive care. Socially, bridging these gaps fosters trust within underserved communities, improves health literacy, and promotes social cohesion. Ethically, it upholds principles of justice and beneficence by ensuring equitable treatment. Conversely, resistance from established institutions or resource limitations may pose challenges to implementing these solutions; nonetheless, the societal gains often justify these investments.

References

• Christensen, C. M. (1997). The Innovator’s Dilemma: When New Technologies Cause Great Firms to Fail. Harvard Business School Press.
• World Health Organization. (2010). A Conceptual Framework for Action on Social Determinants of Health. WHO Press.
• Friedman, E. A., & Norbeck, J. H. (2011). The Role of Disruptive Innovation in Healthcare. Nursing Administration Quarterly, 35(2), 150–157.
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• Sharma, S., & Mark, D. (2018). Technology and Access in Healthcare. Digital Medicine Journal, 4(1), 2–9.