Select a public health issue and write a 750-1,000 word policy brief that provides a brief summary of the issue, options to solve the issue, and the best way to solve this issue. Select a public health issue from one of the following American Public Health Association websites: Climate Change (https://www.apha.org/topics-and-issues/climate-change) or Topics and Issues (https://www.apha.org/topics-and-issues).
Follow this outline when writing the policy brief:
- Identify issue.
- Background information – (a) Population effected; (b) Local, state or national level; and (c) Evidence about the issues supported by resources
- Problem statement.
- Suggestions for addressing the issue (solutions) – (a) Including necessary stakeholders (government officials, administrator); and (b) Include budget or funding considerations, if applicable
- Impact on the Health Care Delivery System
Include three peer-reviewed sources and two other sources to support the policy brief.
Prepare this assignment according to the guidelines found in the APA Style Guide. An abstract is not required.
Do not Submit this assignment to Turnitin.
Expert Solution Preview
Introduction:
The public health issue selected for this policy brief is climate change. Climate change is a global issue that affects the health and well-being of individuals and communities worldwide. The American Public Health Association recognizes climate change as a significant threat to human health, and thus, initiatives aimed at mitigating its impact and promoting sustainability efforts are critical.
Identify Issue:
Climate change is the long-term alteration of weather patterns, which affect all aspects of the environment and human life. It results from various factors, including human activities that release greenhouse gases such as carbon dioxide, methane, and nitrous oxide into the atmosphere. These pollutants trap heat and lead to an increase in the earth’s temperature, which resultantly leads to the extinction of plant and animal species, changes in precipitation patterns, extreme weather events, and rising sea levels.
Background Information:
Climate change affects the entire population of the globe, but disadvantaged communities are typically the most vulnerable. This includes low-income neighborhoods, indigenous populations, those with inadequate access to healthcare or environmental resources, and developing countries. At the national level, climate change initiatives are implemented through state and federal agencies such as the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA).
Recent studies have revealed the severe health impacts of climate change, including respiratory illnesses, heat-related illnesses, infectious disease transmission, food insecurity, and mental health problems. The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) suggests that action must be taken to reduce emissions and limit global warming to avoid further exacerbations of these health consequences.
Problem Statement:
The challenge of climate change presents a significant threat to human health, leading to negative ecological and health outcomes. In addition, the impact of climate change is not confined to a single area, and a coordinated response is, therefore, needed.
Solutions:
Addressing climate change is a multifaceted issue, and a wide range of initiatives is necessary for the success of a new policy. It is crucial to include relevant stakeholders such as government officials, administrators, and environmental scientists in the policymaking process to increase the likelihood of buy-in and implementation.
The following are some solutions that can be implemented to mitigate the effects of climate change:
1. Development of clean energy sources: The widespread adoption of renewable energy sources such as solar, wind, and hydro will reduce reliance on fossil fuels and, in turn, lower the amount of greenhouse gases released into the atmosphere.
2. Protection of natural resources: Strict regulations and policies aimed at protecting the nation’s natural resources, such as oceans, forests, and national parks, can significantly reduce the impact of human activities on the environment.
3. Reducing emissions: Strict regulations on industries that release large amounts of greenhouse gases can decrease their environmental impact.
4. Reforestation: Replanting trees in an effort to increase the amount of carbon-absorbing flora on the planet.
Impact on Health Care Delivery System:
Addressing climate change has a significant impact on the healthcare delivery system. Healthcare providers, including nurses and physicians, must be prepared to handle the health consequences of climate change adequately. This may include treating heat-related illnesses, reducing the spread of infectious diseases, and addressing mental health concerns.
Conclusion:
Climate change is a significant health issue that requires a collaborative response from stakeholders and policymakers. This policy brief outlined the background and consequences of climate change, problem statement, options for solutions, and the potential impact. It is essential to recognize the critical role that the healthcare delivery system has in addressing climate change and reducing its adverse health impacts.
