Culture, science, modernity and politics admittedly define the very framework of our existence as one of the citizens of the state who has an organized pattern of belief system. These factors are obviously unpredictable at times that affects many facets of our life including health care system. Like any other sector, health care environment is changing overtime; it is inevitable then that health care policy also vary.
The book “Policy and Politics in Nursing and Health Care” by Mason, Leavitt and Chafee is a credible resource that gives a well researched information about the history and evolution of health care system particularly in the United States. This is particularly significant for nursing students who are the future policy makers for health care system since it gives a subtle guide of how health policy should be written and establish in the midst of political arena. The authors gave account on their personal stories and experiences to the regulatory process and the organization of health care in the United States.
In this book it can be learned that it is significant to explore policy making and politics since both is closely integrated. Policy making can be a political action towards health care problems, health insurance, Medicare and childcare, hence an important way to help address the issues of medication. The information on the book not only enhances one’s knowledge towards policy making and public health but also boost one’s political knowledge and skills, thus preparing for leadership.
Leadership is one of the important values that policy makers should always have to remain competitive and flexible in facing different political struggles. The writers also gave strategies on how to advertise and promote the benefits of health care and policies. Policies makers can also be the voice in the needs of the public medication like “harnessing the power of the media to influence health policy and politics”, “getting free media coverage for nursing issues” and using internet to “empower activism” (Mason, Leavitt and Chafee).
Basically, the policy makers influence the goals of policy change and the political plans for meeting those objectives or goals that will eventually cater the needs of the public. It is therefore significant for them to have a better understanding regarding the dynamics of the health policy, its establishment to effectively influence public policies. Reference: Mason, D. , Leavitt, J K. & Chaffee, Mary (2007). Policy & Politics in Nursing and Health Care: in nursing and health care: Saunders Elsevier.