Part 1 Global Health Comparison Matrix Focusing On The Count

Part 1 Global Health Comparison Matrixfocusing On The Country You Sel

Part 1: Global Health Comparison Matrix Focusing on the country you selected and the U.S., complete the Global Health Comparison Matrix. Be sure to address the following: Consider the U.S. national/federal health policies that have been adapted for the global health issue you selected from the WHO global health agenda. Compare these policies to the additional country you selected for study. Explain the strengths and weaknesses of each policy. Explain how the social determinants of health may impact the global health issue you selected. Be specific and provide examples. Using the WHO’s Organization’s global health agenda as well as the results of your own research, analyze how each country’s government addresses cost, quality, and access to the global health issue selected. Explain how the health policy you selected might impact the health of the global population. Be specific and provide examples. Explain how the health policy you selected might impact the role of the nurse in each country. Explain how global health issues impact local healthcare organizations and policies in both countries. Be specific and provide examples.

Paper For Above instruction

The complex landscape of global health necessitates a comprehensive comparison of health policies across different nations, especially in the context of pressing health issues identified by the World Health Organization (WHO). This paper compares the United States' health policies addressing infectious diseases, specifically COVID-19, with those of Canada, highlighting strengths, weaknesses, and the influence of social determinants of health.

The United States' approach to managing COVID-19 exemplifies a policy landscape characterized by decentralization and variability. The U.S. adopted policies emphasizing individual responsibility, such as vaccination mandates in some states and public health guidelines. Strengths of the U.S. policies include rapid deployment of resources and innovation, exemplified by the swift development and deployment of vaccines through initiatives like Operation Warp Speed. However, weaknesses stem from disparities in access, high costs, and political polarization impacting public health measures (Kraus et al., 2021). Social determinants such as socioeconomic status, race, and access to healthcare significantly influenced disease outcomes, with marginalized communities experiencing higher infection and mortality rates (Williams & Cooper, 2020).

In contrast, Canada’s health policies towards COVID-19 are characterized by a more centralized healthcare system with Canada's publicly funded healthcare system facilitating equitable access. Strengths include coordinated national responses, clear communication, and equitable distribution of vaccines (Public Health Agency of Canada, 2021). Weaknesses involve challenges in reaching remote indigenous populations and logistical issues with vaccine distribution. Social determinants, including geographic isolation and socioeconomic disparities, also affected health outcomes, but Canada's policy emphasis on universal healthcare mitigated some disparities seen in the U.S. (Reading & Wien, 2020).

Addressing cost, quality, and access, the U.S. faces high healthcare costs, inconsistent quality, and unequal access, impacting the management and outcomes of COVID-19 (Squires & Beland, 2020). Canada’s publicly funded healthcare system provides universal access, resulting in more equitable health outcomes, although resource limitations can affect quality. These policies directly influence the role of nurses; in the U.S., nurses often operate in fragmented systems requiring adaptability, whereas in Canada, nurses are integral to a coordinated, team-based approach (CNA, 2021). Globally, health policies that promote equity and universal access can improve health outcomes, reduce disparities, and bolster the role of nurses as frontline providers.

Global health issues significantly impact local healthcare organizations and policies in both countries. In the U.S., hospitals and clinics faced overwhelming demand and resource shortages, prompting changes in emergency preparedness protocols (Hick et al., 2020). Canadian healthcare institutions also experienced stress, especially in rural areas, leading to increased telehealth initiatives and policy adaptations to maintain service delivery (Martin et al., 2021). These responses exemplify how global health crises necessitate local policy modifications, resource allocation, and workforce adjustments.

In conclusion, comparing the U.S. and Canadian health policies on COVID-19 reveals critical insights into strengths, weaknesses, and the influence of social determinants. Both countries’ policies underscore the importance of equitable access, coordinated responses, and the vital role of nurses. The integration of global health strategies into national policies can enhance preparedness and resilience, ultimately improving health outcomes worldwide.

Part 2: A Plan for Social Change

As a nurse leader, integrating a global health perspective into local practice involves advocating for policies that promote health equity and universal access. Building awareness about how global health issues influence local health outcomes can foster community engagement and support for transformative change. For example, implementing community-based programs that address social determinants such as housing, education, and food security aligns local efforts with global strategies to reduce health disparities.

Incorporating a global perspective also entails fostering collaborations with international health organizations, participating in cross-cultural training, and promoting evidence-based practices derived from global research. As nurse leaders, championing policies that emphasize equity, cultural competence, and resource allocation can improve patient outcomes, especially for vulnerable populations. For instance, advocating for telehealth expansion in underserved areas can bridge access gaps highlighted by global health crises.

This global lens enhances the role of nurses as advocates, educators, and leaders capable of influencing health policies aligned with international standards. Such an approach contributes to social change by promoting health equity, reducing disparities, and strengthening community resilience. For example, nurse-led initiatives that incorporate global health principles—such as vaccination campaigns and health education—can directly benefit local populations and influence policy changes.

In summary, applying a global health perspective in nursing leadership not only enhances individual practice but also advances community health and social justice. Embracing global health issues as part of local practice fosters a proactive stance toward health equity, ultimately contributing to sustainable social change and improved health outcomes.

References

  • Kraus, C., Bittner, M., & Unger, G. (2021). The impact of political polarization on COVID-19 responses. American Journal of Public Health, 111(8), 1430-1435.
  • Health Affairs, 39(9), 1604-1608.
  • Public Health Agency of Canada. (2021). COVID-19 response and vaccination strategy. Ottawa: Government of Canada.
  • Reading, C., & Wien, F. (2020). Health inequalities and social determinants of health in Canada. Canadian Journal of Public Health, 111(2), 180–185.
  • Squires, D., & Beland, J. (2020). The impact of healthcare costs on health outcomes in North America. Health Policy, 124(4), 457-464.
  • Canadian Nurses Association (CNA). (2021). The role of nurses in health system reform. Ottawa: CNA Publications.
  • Hick, J. L., et al. (2020). Surge capacity for COVID-19: Strategies for health care systems. Annals of Internal Medicine, 173(4), 290–293.
  • Martin, D., et al. (2021). Telehealth adoption in rural Canada during COVID-19. Rural and Remote Health, 21(1), 6443.
  • World Health Organization. (2020). Global health agenda for COVID-19 response. Geneva: WHO Publications.
  • World Health Organization. (2021). Social determinants of health: The solid facts. Copenhagen: WHO Regional Office for Europe.

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