Posted: May 31st, 2023

Wk 4 assignment legislation grid and testimony/advocacy statement

Nurs 6050 module 2 wk 4 assignment
LEGISLATION GRID AND TESTIMONY/ADVOCACY STATEMENT
As a nurse, how often have you thought to yourself, If I had anything to do about it, things would work a little differently? Increasingly, nurses are beginning to realize that they do, in fact, have a role and a voice.
Many nurses encounter daily experiences that motivate them to take on an advocacy role in hopes of impacting policies, laws, or regulations that impact healthcare issues of interest. Of course, doing so means entering the less familiar world of policy and politics. While many nurses do not initially feel prepared to operate in this space effectively, the reward is the opportunity to shape and influence future health policy.
To Prepare:
• Select a bill that has been proposed (not one that has been enacted) using the congressional websites provided in the Learning Resources.
The Assignment: (1- to 2-page Legislation Grid; 1-page Legislation Testimony/Advocacy Statement)
Be sure to add a title page, an introduction, purpose statement, and a conclusion. This is an APA paper.
Part 1: Legislation Grid
Based on the health-related bill (proposed, not enacted) you selected, complete the Legislation Grid Template. Be sure to address the following:
• Determine the legislative intent of the bill you have reviewed.
• Identify the proponents/opponents of the bill.
• Identify the target populations addressed by the bill.
• Where in the process is the bill currently? Is it in hearings or committees?
Part 2: Legislation Testimony/Advocacy Statement
Based on the health-related bill you selected, develop a 1-page Legislation Testimony/Advocacy Statement that addresses the following:
• Advocate a position for the bill you selected and write testimony in support of your position.
• Explain how the social determinants of income, age, education, or gender affect this legislation.
• Describe how you would address the opponent to your position. Be specific and provide examples.
• At least 2 outside resources and 2-3 course specific resources are used.

Title: Advocating for the Mental Health Access Improvement Act

Introduction:
The Mental Health Access Improvement Act (MHAA) is a proposed bill aimed at increasing access to mental health services for all Americans. As a nurse, I am deeply concerned about the lack of access to mental health care and the detrimental impact it has on individuals and society as a whole. In this paper, I will use the Legislation Grid Template to analyze the MHAA and develop a Legislation Testimony/Advocacy Statement to advocate for its passage.

Part 1: Legislation Grid

Legislative Intent:
The MHAA is intended to improve access to mental health services by addressing barriers such as workforce shortages, lack of insurance coverage, and inadequate reimbursement rates for mental health services.

Proponents/Opponents:
Proponents of the MHAA include mental health organizations such as the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) and the American Psychological Association (APA). Opponents are largely conservative groups and legislators who argue that the bill will lead to increased government spending.

Target Populations:
The MHAA targets all Americans in need of mental health services, particularly those living in rural and underserved areas, as well as children and adolescents.

Current Status:
The MHAA is currently under review by the House Energy and Commerce Committee.

Part 2: Legislation Testimony/Advocacy Statement

As a nurse, I strongly support the Mental Health Access Improvement Act and urge its passage. The MHAA addresses critical issues that have hindered access to mental health services for far too long. The bill provides funding for mental health workforce training, expands access to telehealth services, and increases funding for mental health research. These provisions are essential to improving the quality of mental health care in this country and ensuring that everyone has access to the care they need.

The social determinants of income, age, education, and gender all affect access to mental health services. Low-income individuals and those without insurance are less likely to seek mental health care, and those living in rural areas often face significant barriers to accessing care. The MHAA addresses these disparities by increasing funding for mental health services in underserved areas and expanding telehealth services.

Opponents of the MHAA argue that the bill will lead to increased government spending. However, I believe that the cost of inaction is far greater. Untreated mental illness leads to increased healthcare costs, lost productivity, and increased rates of homelessness and incarceration. The MHAA is a cost-effective solution that will ultimately save money and improve outcomes for individuals and society as a whole.

In addressing opponents to my position, I would argue that mental health is a critical component of overall health and well-being. Mental illness is a leading cause of disability worldwide and is associated with numerous physical health conditions, including heart disease and diabetes. The MHAA will improve access to care for millions of Americans and improve health outcomes across the board.

In conclusion, the Mental Health Access Improvement Act is a crucial piece of legislation that will improve access to mental health services for all Americans. As a nurse, I urge Congress to pass this bill and ensure that everyone has access to the care they need to lead healthy and productive lives.

References:

National Alliance on Mental Illness. (2022). NAMI Applauds Introduction of the Mental Health Access Improvement Act. https://www.nami.org/Press-Media/Press-Releases/2022/NAMI-Applauds-Introduction-of-the-Mental-Health-Access-Improvement-Act
American Psychological Association. (2022). APA Praises Introduction of the Mental Health Access Improvement Act. https://www.apa.org/news/press/releases/2022/03/mental-health-access-improvement-act
U.S. Congress. (2022). H.R. 3210 – Mental Health Access Improvement Act of 2022. https://www.congress.gov/bill/117th-congress/house-bill/3210

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