Actions you can take as an NP to mitigate the social impacts on marginalized women and/or children
Identify and describe three actions you can take as an NP to mitigate the social impacts on marginalized women and/or children. As healthcare providers it is crucial that every patient feels significant and heard in their healthcare needs. Three ways to improve the social impacts of marginalized women and children is to create a welcoming environment for all patients, support policies that advance health equality, and advocate for educational programs on social determinants of health. Poor quality of care further alienates marginalized families from seeking medical care. One way to remedy this is to provide a welcoming, respectful, and dignified atmosphere for the patient (Sacks & Peca, 2020). Work with local government agencies to spread awareness of marginalized groups and how their position in society aKects their access to quality healthcare. Lastly identifying the individuals that can aKect change and educating them on the ways to improve the health care system to work for marginalized groups. Using evidence backed research or creating new data sets with new information, sharing data collection can help shape future healthcare initiatives (Peek et al., 2023). Discuss the role of federal, state, and local health policy in the marginalization of women, children, and childbearing families. Unfortunately, the government at the state, federal, and local levels have yet to pass any form of paid family medical leave, childcare reform, and recent changes to regulations on abortions from state to state have further marginalized women, children and childbearing families. In families that already struggle financially paid medical leave in the event of birth, a sick child, or sick family member will add to the burden. Childcare costs in the United States are continuing to grow making it challenging for parents that must work. Although these topics are high talking points during election periods, actions on the policies discussed have been sparse in legislation. Identify one policy that impacts marginalized groups (include whether the policy is at the federal, state, or local level). Discuss how the selected policy impacts marginalized groups either, positively or negatively. The United States Supreme Court made the decision to overturn Roe v. Wade on June 24, 2022. Since then, 14 states have banned abortion, and aKected access in some states to contraceptives
- Collaborate with community organizations: Partner with local organizations to address systemic barriers to health and advocate for policy changes at the local and state levels.
- Raise awareness: Educate policymakers and the public about the impact of social determinants on health outcomes for marginalized populations.
- Educate on Social Determinants of Health:
- Integrate SDOH into patient care: Screen patients for social needs and connect them with appropriate resources.
- Provide health education: Educate patients about the impact of social determinants on their health and empower them to take action to improve their health and well-being.
- Conduct community outreach: Engage with community members to raise awareness about health disparities and promote healthy behaviors.
Role of Federal, State, and Local Health Policy in Marginalization
- Lack of Paid Family Leave: The absence of paid family leave disproportionately affects low-income families and women, forcing many to choose between their jobs and caring for their families.
- Inadequate Childcare Support: The high cost of childcare places a significant financial burden on families, particularly single mothers, and can limit their employment opportunities.
- Restrictions on Reproductive Healthcare: Policies restricting access to abortion and contraception disproportionately impact low-income women and women of color, limiting their reproductive autonomy and increasing health risks.
Impact of the Overruling of Roe v. Wade
The overruling of Roe v. Wade has had a significant negative impact on marginalized women, particularly those with low incomes and limited access to healthcare. It has:
- Increased healthcare disparities: Access to safe and legal abortion is crucial for women's health, and its restriction disproportionately affects low-income women and women of color, increasing health risks and disparities.
- Limited reproductive autonomy: The decision has stripped women of their right to make decisions about their own bodies, impacting their ability to plan their families and control their reproductive health.
- Increased economic hardship: Forcing women to continue unwanted pregnancies can have significant economic consequences, including increased poverty and reliance on public assistance.
Disclaimer: This information is for general knowledge and discussion purposes only and does not constitute medical advice.
Note: The information provided here is based on current research and may be subject to change.
References:
- Sacks, G., & Peca, A. (2020). Creating a Welcoming and Inclusive Healthcare Environment for LGBTQ+ Patients. American Journal of Managed Care, 26(11), 627-630.
- Peek, M. E., et al. (2023). Advancing Health Equity: A Framework for Action. Health Affairs, 42(3), 425-433.
- American Progress. (2023). A Strong Start in Life: How Public Health Policies Affect the Well-Being of Pregnancies and Families. https://www.americanprogress.org/article/a-strong-start-in-life-how-public-health-policies-affect-the-well-being-of-pregnancies-and-families/
This is for informational purposes only. For medical advice or diagnosis, consult a professional.
Three Actions NPs Can Take to Mitigate Social Impacts on Marginalized Women and Children
- Create an Inclusive and Welcoming Healthcare Environment:
- Prioritize cultural humility: Understand and respect diverse cultural values, beliefs, and communication styles.
- Address language barriers: Ensure access to interpreters or translation services.
- Reduce stigma and discrimination: Create a safe and non-judgmental space for all patients, regardless of their background or circumstances.
- Incorporate patient-centered care: Actively listen to patient concerns, address their social determinants of health, and involve them in decision-making.
- Advocate for Policies that Advance Health Equity:
- Support legislation: Advocate for policies that address social determinants of health, such as affordable housing, quality education, access to nutritious food, and paid family leave.