Reflection Question:
Consider the hypothetical case of Anytown, USA. The first question is based on your own experience so that you can begin the discussion immediately without having completed all of your readings. So, based on your experiences and time so far in the course, answer the following question:
- As you read through the list of concerns the mayor has, which one do you think should be addressed first and why? As you discuss, you may want to consider the potential impact of this problem on the community (e.g. safety, quality of life, overall community wellness, etc.).
Application Question:
Now applying what you’ve learned from the readings, let’s go through the rest of the discussion together, one question at a time.
- Choose one of the problems the mayor described that is of interest to you and that you feel must be addressed as soon as possible. Using the assigned materials and at least one other article on a vulnerable population that you have located from the Excelsior library or a credible organizational website (e.g. government, think tank, highly credible healthcare organization), discuss why this problem needs to be a high priority. Talk briefly about what has led up to this problem; in other words, what is impacting the healthcare system’s ability to meet the needs of this population? What are the unique needs for this population to experience optimal health and well-being?
- Briefly share a strategy that has been successfully tried elsewhere to address this very problem. Use the research but also remember the human beings involved – special populations, other community members, health professionals, community leaders – and use leadership empathy to advocate your position. Share with your classmates an example of a program for addressing one of these vulnerable populations that was successful in a similar community. Keep this short and conversational – dialogue, not an essay. Use your advocacy hat as well as your expertise in culling information from the evidence base to share your recommendations.