Healthcare Policy

The course content culminated with an examination of policy, and appropriate end point because every previous topic influences policy and policy impacts each area of healthcare.

For this assignment, select a healthcare related policy -- either one in existence or (more difficult) one you would propose -- and in a 3 - 5 page paper explain its purpose and impact.  Do NOT simply describe a law or policy without explaining its impact (i.e. whether it has worked). You must tell me if the policy you choose has been successful or a failure.  Then support that answer with facts and possibly references.  Do not simply describe the reasons a policy went into place at the time it did.  That is part of the paper, but the story and paper is not complete without some discussion of the outcome.  

Your analysis must include how the policy influences some or all of the realms explored this semester. In other words, this is your opportunity to demonstrate your understanding of the complexities of healthcare.

In considering which policy to examine [I considered specifying the topic, but prefer to let your creativity flow], adopt a broad perspective. Appropriate topics range from broad public health initiatives (mandatory seat belt use, prohibition on tobacco advertising, older drinking age) to fiscal influencer (readmission penalties, never events, HIT incentives and penalties, block grants) to operational mandates (CON requirements, limits on training hours, EMTALA, quality improvement initiatives).

Condensing your research and findings into a concise and precise paper is a major challenge. It is also a practical skill.