Posted: February 13th, 2024

Health Issues: From Global to Local

Discussion Post: Health Issues: From Global to Local

The increasing interconnectedness of the world has brought numerous benefits, including enhanced mobility and access to global products. However, this interconnectedness also poses significant challenges, particularly in the realm of public health. One global health issue that exemplifies this challenge is the spread of infectious diseases, such as COVID-19. What began as a localized outbreak in Wuhan, China, rapidly escalated into a global pandemic, affecting millions of people worldwide. This example underscores how a local health issue can quickly become a global crisis, necessitating coordinated international responses.

At the local level, the impact of such global health issues can be profound. For instance, during the COVID-19 pandemic, local healthcare systems in many countries were overwhelmed, leading to shortages of medical supplies, hospital beds, and healthcare workers. In the United States, local communities faced not only the direct health impacts of the virus but also secondary effects such as economic downturns, mental health crises, and disruptions in education. As a nurse leader, it would be crucial to work with local authorities to inform and educate the community about the risks of such global health issues and the measures they can take to protect themselves.

To effectively inform and educate the local population, specific data would be required. This includes epidemiological data on the spread of the disease, demographic information on vulnerable populations, and data on the availability of healthcare resources. One valuable source for this information is the World Health Organization (WHO), which provides comprehensive reports and updates on global health issues. The WHO’s data is reliable and widely recognized, making it an authoritative source for informing public health strategies at the local level. By leveraging such data, nurse leaders can play a pivotal role in mitigating the impact of global health issues on their communities.

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Assignment: Global Healthcare Comparison Matrix and Narrative Statement

Part 1: Global Health Comparison Matrix

Global Healthcare Issue: COVID-19 Pandemic

Country: United States

• Policy Description: The U.S. federal government implemented a range of policies to combat COVID-19, including the CARES Act, which provided economic relief and funding for healthcare systems. Additionally, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) issued guidelines on social distancing, mask mandates, and vaccination campaigns.
• Strengths of the Policy: The CARES Act provided immediate financial relief to individuals and businesses, helping to mitigate the economic impact of the pandemic. The CDC’s guidelines were instrumental in slowing the spread of the virus, particularly in the early stages of the pandemic.
• Weaknesses of the Policy: The decentralized nature of the U.S. healthcare system led to inconsistent implementation of policies across states. Additionally, political polarization often hindered the adoption of uniform public health measures, such as mask mandates and vaccination efforts.

Country: Germany

• Policy Description: Germany adopted a more centralized approach to managing COVID-19, with the federal government working closely with state governments to implement nationwide policies. These included strict lockdowns, widespread testing, and a robust contact tracing system.
• Strengths of the Policy: Germany’s centralized approach allowed for more consistent implementation of public health measures. The country’s strong healthcare infrastructure and early investment in testing and contact tracing helped to keep infection rates relatively low compared to other European countries.
• Weaknesses of the Policy: Despite these strengths, Germany faced challenges in maintaining public compliance with lockdown measures over time. Additionally, the economic impact of prolonged lockdowns was significant, particularly for small businesses.

Social Determinants of Health: In both the U.S. and Germany, social determinants of health played a critical role in the impact of COVID-19. For example, in the U.S., communities with lower socioeconomic status experienced higher rates of infection and mortality due to factors such as crowded living conditions and limited access to healthcare. In Germany, immigrant populations faced similar challenges, highlighting the need for targeted public health interventions.

Cost, Quality, and Access: The U.S. government allocated significant funding to address COVID-19, but disparities in access to healthcare persisted, particularly for uninsured individuals. In contrast, Germany’s universal healthcare system ensured that all citizens had access to testing and treatment, though the cost of prolonged lockdowns strained the economy.

Impact on Global Population and Nurses: The U.S. approach to COVID-19, while effective in some areas, highlighted the challenges of a fragmented healthcare system. In Germany, the centralized approach demonstrated the benefits of coordinated public health efforts. For nurses, the pandemic underscored the importance of adaptability and the need for ongoing education in infectious disease management.

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Part 2: Plan for Social Change

As a nurse leader, incorporating a global perspective into local practice is essential for addressing the complex challenges posed by global health issues. One way to advocate for this perspective is by promoting cross-cultural competence within healthcare teams. This involves educating staff on the cultural, social, and economic factors that influence health outcomes, particularly in diverse communities.

Incorporating a global perspective can also enhance local practice by encouraging the adoption of best practices from other countries. For example, Germany’s centralized approach to COVID-19 could inform strategies for managing future public health crises in the U.S. By learning from global experiences, nurse leaders can develop more effective and equitable healthcare policies.

Finally, adopting a global perspective contributes to social change by fostering a more inclusive and equitable healthcare system. By addressing the social determinants of health and advocating for policies that reduce disparities, nurse leaders can help create a healthcare system that better serves all members of the community, regardless of their background or socioeconomic status.

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Health Matters: Bridging the Global and the Local

In a world where connectivity has become the norm, the concept of a shrinking globe holds true. Increased mobility, international travel, and the consumption of goods from distant lands have all contributed to this phenomenon. While this interconnectedness brings numerous advantages, it also brings with it certain challenges, particularly in the realm of public health. Local health issues can swiftly escalate into national or global crises, necessitating not only effective treatment but also proactive education and awareness efforts within communities.

As a nurse leader, you play a crucial role in addressing these challenges. You may find yourself not only at the forefront of treatment but also as a key educator within your local population. In this discussion, we will explore one such global health issue and consider how you, as a nurse leader, can inform and educate your community.

To begin, let’s delve into the World Health Organization’s (WHO) global health agenda, which serves as a comprehensive guide to prevailing health concerns worldwide. From this agenda, select a health issue that resonates at both the global and local levels. Consider how this issue has impacted your community specifically, providing concrete examples to illustrate its effects.

Next, think about the data required to effectively inform and educate the local population about this global health issue. Reliable information is essential for dispelling myths and fostering understanding. One potential source of data could be governmental health agencies, which often publish detailed reports and statistics on prevalent health issues. Consulting such sources ensures that the information you provide is accurate and up-to-date, instilling trust and credibility among your audience.

Moving on to the assignment, we will undertake a comparative analysis of global health policies, focusing on the chosen issue in both the United States and another country. By examining the strengths and weaknesses of each country’s policies, we can gain valuable insights into potential areas for improvement. Moreover, we will explore how social determinants of health intersect with this issue, considering factors such as socioeconomic status, access to healthcare, and cultural norms.

Furthermore, we will assess the government’s approach to cost, quality, and access to healthcare services related to the selected global health issue in each country. This analysis will shed light on disparities and inequities that may exist and inform strategies for promoting more equitable healthcare systems.

Lastly, we will craft a plan for social change that integrates a global perspective into local nursing practice. By advocating for awareness, education, and policy reforms, we can foster a more inclusive and compassionate healthcare environment that transcends borders. Embracing a global perspective not only enhances the quality of care but also reaffirms our commitment to promoting health and well-being for all.

In conclusion, as nurse leaders, we have a responsibility to navigate the complex landscape of global health issues with empathy, expertise, and cultural competence. By leveraging our knowledge and resources, we can drive meaningful change within our communities and beyond, ensuring a healthier, more resilient world for generations to come.

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Health Issues: From Global to Local

It is often said that the world is “becoming smaller.” Among the justifications for statements such as this is that people are more mobile than ever before, more likely to visit other countries, and more likely to be consumers of products shipped from other countries.
While there are many benefits to being citizens of a smaller world, there are also some disadvantages. Among these is the threat of disease and other health problems that originate elsewhere. What begins as a local health problem can quickly become a national or even an international health problem. As a nurse leader, you could be called upon to not only to help treat such issues but to help inform and educate your local population about the threat.
In this Discussion, you will examine one global healthcare issue and consider your potential role as a source of information for the population you serve.
To Prepare:
Review the World Health Organization’s (WHO) global health agenda in the Resources.
Identify and select one health issue at the global level that has implications at the local level.
Reflect on how a nurse leader might work with local authorities to inform and educate the local population about the global health issue you selected.
INSTRUCTIONS ON DISC> POST

Post a summary of the global health issue you selected and explain how it has impacted the local population. Be specific and provide examples. Then, explain the data you would need to best inform/educate the local population about this global health issue. Describe at least one source you might consult and use to gather this data and provide a rationale for why you would consult this source.

STEP 2
Assignment: Global Healthcare Comparison Matrix and Narrative Statement
If you talk about a possible poor health outcome, do you believe that outcome will occur? Do you believe eye contact and personal contact should be avoided?
You would have a difficult time practicing as a nurse if you believed these to be true. But they are very real beliefs in some cultures.
Differences in cultural beliefs, subcultures, religion, ethnic customs, dietary customs, language, and a host of other factors contribute to the complex environment that surrounds global healthcare issues. Failure to understand and account for these differences can create a gulf between practitioners and the public they serve.
In this Assignment, you will examine a global health issue and consider the approach to this issue by the United States and by one other country.
To Prepare:
Review the World Health Organization’s (WHO) global health agenda and select one global health issue to focus on for this Assignment.
Select at least one additional country to compare to the U.S. for this Assignment.
Reflect on how the global health issue you selected is approached in the U.S. and in the additional country you selected.
Review and download the Global Health Comparison Matrix provided in the Resources.
The Assignment: (1- to 2-page Global Health Comparison Matrix; 1-page Plan for Social Change)
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.
Part 2: A Plan for Social Change
Reflect on the global health policy comparison and analysis you conducted in Part 1 of the Assignment and the impact that global health issues may have on the world, the U.S., your community, as well as your practice as a nurse leader.
In a 1-page response, create a plan for social change that incorporates a global perspective or lens into your local practice and role as a nurse leader.
Explain how you would advocate for the incorporation of a global perspective or lens into your local practice and role as a nurse leader.
Explain how the incorporation of a global perspective or lens might impact your local practice and role as a nurse leader.
Explain how the incorporation of a global perspective or lens into your local practice as a nurse leader represents and contributes to social change. Be specific and provide examples.

THE ASSIGNMENT

Global Health Comparison Grid Template

Use this document to complete the Module 6 Assessment Global Healthcare Comparison Matrix and Narrative Statement

Global Healthcare Issue

Description

Country United States

Describe the policy in each country related to the identified healthcare issue

What are the strengths of this policy?

What are the weaknesses of this policy?

Explain how the social determinants of health may impact the specified global health issue. (Be specific and provide examples)

How has each country’ government addressed cost, quality, and access to the selected global health issue?

How has the identified health policy impacted the health of the global population? (Be specific and provide examples)

Describe the potential impact of the identified health policy on the role of nurse in each country.

Explain how global health issues impact local healthcare organizations and policies in both countries. (Be specific and provide examples)

General Notes/Comments

resourses
Milstead, J. A., & Short, N. M. (2019). Health policy and politics: A nurse’s guide (6th ed.). Burlington, MA: Jones & Bartlett Learning.
Chapter 11, “The Impact of Globalization: Nurses Influencing Global Health Policy” (pp. 194–208)
Corless, I. B., Nardi, D., Milstead, J. A., Larson, E., Nokes, K. M., Orsega, S., Kurth, A. E., … Woith, W. (2018). Expanding nursing’s role in responding to global pandemics. Nursing Outlook, 66(4), 412–415. doi:10.1016/j.outlook.2018.06.003
Note: You will access this article from the Walden Library databases.
Donkin, A., Goldblatt, P., Allen, J., Nathanson, V., & Marmot, M. (2017). Global action on the social determinants of health. BMJ Global Health, 3(1). doi:10.1136/bmjgh-2017-000603
Note: You will access this article from the Walden Library databases.
Sandoval-Almazana, R., & Gil-Garcia, J. R. (2011). Are government internet portals evolving towards more interaction, participation, and collaboration? Revisiting the rhetoric of e-government among municipalities. Government Information Quarterly, 29(Suppl. 1), S72–S81. doi:10.1016/j.giq.2011.09.004
Note: You will access this article from the Walden Library databases.
World Health Organization (WHO). (n.d.). Global health agenda. Retrieved September 20, 2018, from http://www.who.int/about/vision/global_health_agenda/en/

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Health Matters: Bridging the Global and the Local
Introduction
In today’s interconnected world, health issues know no borders. Local communities now face challenges that were once considered global problems, necessitating proactive, collaborative efforts across all levels of society. As nurse leaders on the frontlines of healthcare, we play a pivotal role in addressing these challenges through education, advocacy and policy reform. This paper will examine the growing burden of noncommunicable diseases (NCDs), both worldwide and within our local population. A comparative analysis of global and domestic policies will shed light on opportunities to promote health equity. Finally, a plan for social change at the community level will be proposed to help curb the rising tide of chronic illness through prevention-focused nursing practice.
The Global Burden of NCDs
NCDs such as cardiovascular disease, cancer, diabetes and chronic respiratory diseases have emerged as the leading causes of mortality globally, responsible for over 70% of deaths each year (WHO, 2022). [1] Low- and middle-income countries have experienced the steepest rise in NCD prevalence in recent decades due to rapid urbanization, aging populations and the nutrition transition associated with globalization (OECD, 2022). [2] Risk factors like tobacco use, physical inactivity, unhealthy diet and obesity have proliferated worldwide, driven by powerful commercial interests and inadequate policy responses (CDC, 2022). [3]
While NCDs impose immense human suffering, their economic toll is also staggering. It is estimated that chronic diseases cost the global economy over $7 trillion annually in direct medical costs and lost productivity (World Economic Forum, 2020). [4] The burden disproportionately falls on vulnerable groups who lack access to prevention, screening and treatment services. This inequity threatens to further entrench health disparities and undermine development progress in low-resource settings. Clearly, a coordinated, multisectoral strategy is urgently needed to stem the rising tide of NCDs worldwide.
The Local Impact of NCDs
At the community level, the impact of the global NCD epidemic is readily apparent. Analysis of local hospital admission and mortality data reveals chronic diseases have surpassed infectious illnesses as the primary driver of poor health outcomes (County Health Rankings, 2023). [5] Between 2018-2022, deaths from heart disease, cancer and diabetes rose sharply in our county, accounting for over 60% of total fatalities last year (County Health Department, 2023). [6]
Certain at-risk demographic groups have been disproportionately affected. Hospitalization rates for hypertension, heart failure and stroke are twice as high among African Americans and Hispanics/Latinos relative to non-Hispanic whites (County Health Department, 2022). [7] Meanwhile, American Indian/Alaska Natives experience the highest rates of obesity and diabetes nationwide, with prevalence in our tribal communities exceeding 50% (Indian Health Service, 2021). [8]
Socioeconomic factors play a key role in these disparities. Underserved neighborhoods in our county have significantly less access to healthy, affordable food options and safe spaces for physical activity compared to wealthier areas (County Health Department, 2021). [9] Lack of preventive healthcare due to inadequate or no insurance further exacerbates health inequities (County Health Rankings, 2022). [10] If left unaddressed, these social determinants of health will continue fueling the local NCD crisis for years to come.
A Comparative Analysis of Global and Domestic NCD Policies
To gain insights into potential policy solutions, it is instructive to examine NCD strategies in the United States relative to other nations. Canada serves as an illustrative example given its universal healthcare system and comparable socio-demographic profile. Both countries grapple with rising healthcare expenditures driven by chronic diseases, yet Canada has achieved greater success curbing several key NCD risk factors (OECD, 2022). [2]
For instance, Canada levies a tax on sugar-sweetened beverages and restricts marketing of unhealthy foods to children via the Food and Consumer Products Advertising Code (Government of Canada, 2022). [11] In contrast, U.S. soda taxes remain limited to select cities and states, while deceptive food marketing to youth remains largely unregulated at the federal level (CDC, 2022). [3]
Similarly, Canada enforces some of the strictest limits on tobacco advertising, promotion and product placement through the Tobacco and Vaping Products Act (Government of Canada, 2021). [12] This has contributed to nearly a 20% decline in smoking rates since 2000 compared to a much more modest 9% drop in the U.S. over the same period (OECD, 2022). [2]
Finally, universal healthcare access in Canada means all residents receive coverage for clinical preventive services, chronic disease management and end-of-life care regardless of socioeconomic status (Government of Canada, 2023). [13] In the U.S., over 27 million individuals remain uninsured and underinsured, lacking consistent access to basic medical care (Kaiser Family Foundation, 2022). [14]
This comparative analysis highlights several evidence-based policy levers—such as population-wide prevention strategies, robust marketing restrictions and universal healthcare—that could help curb the NCD crisis if more widely adopted domestically. A multifaceted “health in all policies” approach is needed to stem rising rates of chronic illness and promote health equity across communities.
A Plan for Social Change at the Local Level
To translate these insights into meaningful progress, nurse leaders must integrate a global perspective into grassroots efforts addressing NCDs within our community. Several targeted initiatives could advance this goal:
Collaborate with community centers, schools, faith-based groups and tribal organizations to deliver culturally-sensitive health education programs on diet, exercise, tobacco cessation and chronic disease self-management. Leverage trusted community members as peer educators.
Advocate for policy changes at the county level like increasing physical education requirements in schools, implementing smoke-free multi-unit housing ordinances, and incentivizing supermarkets and corner stores to offer healthier options in underserved areas through zoning and licensing.
Partner with local health departments and non-profits to screen high-risk groups for chronic conditions via mobile clinics and establish care management programs to help patients control blood pressure, blood sugar, cholesterol and more to prevent complications.
Petition state legislators to enact soda taxes and marketing restrictions on unhealthy foods and beverages as well as increase Medicaid eligibility and essential health benefits to expand access to prevention services.
Submit op-eds and letters to city councils highlighting the social and economic case for “health in all policies” interventions like Complete Streets programs to promote walkability and bikeability.
By embracing a global perspective and emphasizing prevention over treatment, nurse leaders are uniquely positioned to drive meaningful progress on NCDs at the community level through education, advocacy and policy reform. Adopting a public health approach focused on social determinants of health holds promise for improving outcomes and promoting greater equity.
Conclusion
In today’s interconnected world, global health challenges demand global solutions as well as locally-tailored responses. NCDs exemplify this reality, posing immense human and economic costs worldwide yet disproportionately impacting vulnerable populations. As frontline healthcare providers, nurses play a vital role bridging the gap between global issues and grassroots needs through culturally-sensitive care, relationship-building with at-risk groups, and championing evidence-based policy interventions. By leveraging our expertise, credibility and connections within communities, we can help curb preventable illness and close glaring disparities to foster healthier, more resilient populations for generations to come.

 

Sample Paper II

Antimicrobial Resistance: Linking Global Threat and Local Action

Global health issues increasingly cross national borders and impact populations at home and abroad. The WHO considers AMR a critical problem, as germs, including bacteria and viruses, adapt to protect themselves against medicines, including antibiotics. These resistant infections spread worldwide, quickly within travel, trade, and healthcare systems making this global threat an urgent local challenge. For instance, if a patient returning to a small town in the United States from abroad introduced a resistant strain of tuberculosis, the local healthcare system could be rapidly overwhelmed. So AMR makes a global issue into an urgent local imperative for healthcare leaders who need to take action based on data.

Effects on the Affected People
AMR has a significant impact on local healthcare systems through its effect on patient response, treatment expenditures, and influence on public health policy. Drug-resistant infections like methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) are common in hospitals and long-term care facilities, making treatment more difficult and prolonging hospital stays. At the same time, the emergence of resistant strains drives up local health care costs due to increased second-line antibiotic use and longer hospital stays.

Clostridioides difficile infections are endemic in healthcare settings and have been increasing, often related to inappropriate antibiotic use. In 2017, CDC reported over 223,900 cases of C. difficile in the United States, along with nearly 12,800 deaths (CDC, 2022). These cases demonstrate how worldwide trends of AMR contribute to disease burdens and impact healthcare infrastructure at a local level.

Data for Public Education

In fact, data that informs awareness and prevention of AMR among the local population on an actionable scientific level is necessary for improvement. Nurse leaders must obtain statistics of local transmission, including rates of MRSA in area hospitals, and analyze reports of antibiotic overuse in the community. Moreover, international trends, like the WHO’s estimate that AMR could kill 10 million people a year by 2050 (if no prevention is undertaken) highlight the need for local action (WHO, 2023).
A primary source for this information is the CDC, which organizes detailed reports on local and national resistance trends and public health response options. It is authoritative — data collection is rigorous, research is peer reviewed — and it is an invaluable tool for tailoring education efforts. Identifying these insights, nurse leaders can partner with local authorities to encourage responsible antibiotic use and help mitigate the local footprint of this global problem.

Plan for Social Change
Global health threats are tied to action locally, and nurse leaders can step up. A solution is, education campaign on antibiotic stewardship and infection prevention to combat AMR. A proactive approach is partnering with local pharmacies to keep track of antibiotic prescriptions and distribute leaflets on the risks of AMR. Community workshops may also improve public understanding and promote appropriate antibiotic use.

Linking international AMR policies to local care more effectively supports prevention. Hospital infection control procedures are in line with WHO standards, ensuring best practices remain the norm. Policies regulating over-the-counter sales of antibiotics mitigate misuse, especially in low-access areas, and so should be encouraged as well.
These strategies help nurse leaders help nurse leaders develop an informed community engaging in AMR prevention. [That] ensures a decrease in infection cases and is boosting the public confidence in healthcare organizations, leading to better health results at both local and global levels.

References
United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) (2022). National Action Plan for Combating Antibiotic-Resistant Bacteria. Atlanta: CDC.

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