Macro System Resources For Law And Health Policy

Macro Systempossible Resourceslaw And Health Policy Healthy

Identify the chronic condition. Discuss the biopsychosocial (biological/genetic, psychological, social) factors that influence the patient’s experience with the chronic condition chosen. Provide a summary of two laws that are in place to support the patient in their daily lives as well as one law that needs to be improved to better support the patient, family, or both. Post must be a minimum of 300 words in length.

Paper For Above instruction

Chronic conditions significantly impact individuals' lives, necessitating comprehensive understanding and support systems to improve patient outcomes. For this paper, I will focus on diabetes mellitus, a prevalent chronic condition characterized by elevated blood glucose levels due to insulin deficiency or resistance. Diabetes affects millions worldwide and necessitates ongoing management involving medical, psychological, and social considerations.

The biopsychosocial model provides a holistic perspective on how biological, psychological, and social factors influence a patient’s experience with diabetes. Biologically, genetics play a role in predisposition; individuals with family histories of diabetes are at higher risk, and metabolic factors such as insulin resistance and pancreatic beta-cell dysfunction directly impact disease progression. Psychological factors include stress, depression, and anxiety, which can impair self-management behaviors essential for controlling blood glucose levels. The psychological burden of living with a chronic disease, including fear of complications and treatment adherence, influences mental well-being and health outcomes.

Social determinants, such as socioeconomic status, education, access to healthcare, and social support networks, also significantly impact diabetes management. Patients with limited resources may struggle to afford medications or nutritious foods, leading to poorer disease control. Social support from family and community networks can facilitate adherence to treatment regimens and promote healthier behaviors, highlighting the importance of community-based interventions.

Legally, the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) provides essential protections, prohibiting discrimination based on disability, which includes chronic conditions like diabetes. The ADA mandates reasonable accommodations in educational and employment settings, facilitating better support and integration for individuals with diabetes. Additionally, the Affordable Care Act (ACA) has expanded healthcare access, allowing more individuals with chronic conditions to obtain necessary services and maintain consistent management plans. These laws create a framework that promotes equality and access, directly impacting the quality of life and health outcomes for diabetic patients.

However, there remains a need for law reform to better support chronic disease management. The current policies do not fully address the unique challenges faced by marginalized populations, including those in rural or underserved areas who often experience barriers to accessing specialized care and resources. Strengthening community health initiatives and expanding telehealth services could bridge this gap, ensuring equitable support across socioeconomic and geographic divides.

In conclusion, a multidisciplinary approach that incorporates biological understanding, psychological support, and social context, complemented by effective laws and policies, is vital for improving the lives of individuals with chronic conditions like diabetes. Continuous legislative improvements are necessary to adapt to evolving healthcare needs and ensure that all patients receive the comprehensive care they deserve.

References

  • American Diabetes Association. (2021). Standards of Medical Care in Diabetes—2021. Diabetes Care, 44(Suppl. 1), S1–S232.
  • Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990, 42 U.S.C. § 12101 et seq.
  • Affordable Care Act, Pub.L. 111–148, 124 Stat. 119, 2010.
  • Braveman, P., & Gottlieb, L. (2014). The Social Determinants of Health: It's Time to Consider the Causes of the Causes. Public Health Reports, 129(1_suppl2), 19–31.
  • Engel, G. L. (1977). The Need for a New Medical Model: A Challenge for Biomedicine. Science, 196(4286), 129–136.
  • Funnell, M. M., & Anderson, R. M. (2008). Patient empowerment: a look back, a look ahead. The Diabetes Educator, 34(3), 507–521.
  • Pronk, N. P., et al. (2015). Social determinants of health and diabetes: a review of the evidence. Journal of Diabetes & Metabolic Disorders, 14, 80.
  • U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. (2020). Healthy People 2020: Social Determinants of Health. Office of Disease Prevention and Health Promotion.
  • Walker, M., & Evans, S. (2019). Bridging the gap: telehealth and health disparities. Telemedicine and e-Health, 25(10), 917–921.
  • World Health Organization. (2016). Global report on diabetes. WHO.

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