Addressing the Public Health Issue of Mental Health Services Accessibility

by | Nov 8, 2023 | Management

Reflect on one public health issue that is impacting your community, family, or a specific population you believe warrants further research. To start your research, use online websites and CC library to learn more about the public health issue you want to research

Part 1: First identify a current public healthcare issue raised in our text that affects you or someone you know. Public healthcare issues can be, for example, related to: clean air and water, vaccinations, communicable diseases, traffic safety, healthy food, gun use, birth control, birth defects, smoking, school lunches, and recreation opportunity such as sufficient parks and bike paths. Define the public health issue you choose, and the public policy about this concern.

Part 2: Describe how this issue is addressed, whether federally, by states, locally, or by private groups, or a combination of these if applicable. Explain how local, state, and federal government entities are responsible for addressing the problem and the difficulties involved. Also explain if the government fails to address the problem directly.

Part 3: Conclude with your analysis on the importance of the issue, and, propose how the issue might be better addressed for the future.

Cite your text and two (2) other authoritative sources. This paper should be a minimum of 700 words.

Write your paper according to APA latest Edition, and include headings/sub-headings. Your completed assignment will include a title page and a reference page in APA formatting and in-text citations of your references.

When saving your document name the document as follows: MGMT340_W3PublicHealth_LastName_FirstInitial.doc

Sample Answer

Sample Answer

Addressing the Public Health Issue of Mental Health Services Accessibility
Part 1: Defining the Public Health Issue
The public health issue I have chosen to address is the accessibility of mental health services. In many communities, including my own, individuals face significant challenges in accessing adequate mental health care. This issue is particularly pronounced among marginalized populations, including low-income individuals and minority groups. The public policy regarding this concern involves the allocation of resources and funding for mental health services, as well as the implementation of policies to ensure equitable access to care for all individuals, regardless of socioeconomic status or demographic factors.
Part 2: Addressing the Issue and Government Responsibilities
The issue of mental health services accessibility is addressed through a combination of efforts at the federal, state, and local levels, as well as by private organizations. Federally, initiatives such as the Mental Health Parity and Addiction Equity Act (MHPAEA) have been implemented to ensure that mental health services are covered by insurance on par with physical health services. Additionally, federal funding is allocated to states to support mental health programs and services. At the state and local levels, governments are responsible for implementing and overseeing mental health programs, community clinics, and support services. However, challenges arise due to budget constraints, limited resources, and disparities in the distribution of services across different geographical areas.
Despite efforts to address the issue, there are instances where the government fails to directly address the problem. Inadequate funding for mental health services, lack of comprehensive insurance coverage, and long wait times for appointments at public mental health facilities are some of the areas where government intervention falls short. These shortcomings contribute to the persistence of barriers to accessing timely and effective mental health care.
Part 3: Analysis and Proposals for Improvement
The importance of addressing the accessibility of mental health services cannot be overstated. Mental health plays a crucial role in overall well-being, and untreated mental illnesses can lead to adverse outcomes for individuals and communities. To better address this issue in the future, several measures can be taken.
Firstly, there needs to be an increased allocation of government resources at both federal and state levels to expand mental health service provision. This includes investing in community mental health centers, increasing the number of mental health professionals, and implementing outreach programs to underserved communities.
Secondly, policies should be developed to address disparities in mental health care access, particularly among minority populations. This involves incorporating cultural competence training for mental health providers and ensuring that services are tailored to meet the needs of diverse communities.
Thirdly, collaboration between government entities, private organizations, and community stakeholders is essential for developing comprehensive solutions. Partnerships can lead to innovative approaches for delivering mental health services, increasing awareness, and reducing stigma surrounding mental illness.
In conclusion, the accessibility of mental health services is a critical public health issue that demands concerted efforts at all levels of government and within communities. Through increased funding, targeted policies, and collaborative partnerships, it is possible to improve access to mental health care and mitigate the adverse impact of untreated mental illnesses on individuals and society.
References
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2020). Mental Health Parity and Addiction Equity Act (MHPAEA). https://www.cdc.gov/mentalhealth/mental_health_parit…
National Institute of Mental Health. (2019). Mental Health Information. https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/statistics/mental-h…
Smith, M., & Sederer, L. (2017). A New Era in Mental Health Services: A Guide for Healthcare Practitioners. Springer.

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