Journal of Public Health Policy and Planning

Reach Us +44-7897-074717

Rapid Communication - Journal of Public Health Policy and Planning (2023) Volume 7, Issue 2

Health Matters: Understanding the Impact of Health Policy on Our Lives.

Harley David*

Western Australian Centre for Rural Health, University of Western Australia, Geraldton, Australia

*Corresponding Author:
Harley David
Western Australian Centre for Rural Health
University of Western Australia, Geraldton, Australia
E-mail: david.h156@uwa.edu.au

Received: 01-Feb-2023, Manuscript No. AAPHPP-23-88845; Editor assigned: 04-Feb-2023, PreQC No. AAPHPP-23-88845 (PQ); Reviewed: 15-Feb-2023, QC No. AAPHPP-23-88845; Revised: 22-Feb-2023, Manuscript No. AAPHPP-23-88845 (R); Published: 27-Feb-2023, DOI: 10.35841/aaphpp-7.2.169

Citation: David H. Health Matters: Understanding the Impact of Health Policy on Our Lives. J Public Health Policy Plan. 2023;7(2):169

Visit for more related articles at Journal of Public Health Policy and Planning

Health policy is a set of laws, regulations, and guidelines that govern the delivery of healthcare services and the financing of healthcare systems. It determines how healthcare resources are allocated, how healthcare services are provided, and how health outcomes are measured and evaluated. Health policy plays a crucial role in shaping the health and well-being of individuals, communities, and nations. The impact of health policy can be seen in various aspects of our lives, such as access to quality healthcare, affordability of healthcare services, and health outcomes. In this article, we will examine how health policy affects each of these aspects of our lives and what it means for our overall health and well-being [1].

Access to Quality Healthcare

Health policy plays a significant role in determining access to quality healthcare. The policies governing healthcare financing and delivery affect the availability and accessibility of healthcare services, especially for vulnerable populations. For example, policies that ensure universal health coverage can improve access to care reduce financial barriers to care, and improve health outcomes. On the other hand, policies that limit access to care, such as restrictions on Medicaid funding; can have a negative impact on the health and well-being of vulnerable populations, such as low-income families, people with disabilities, and older adults [2].

Affordability of Healthcare Services

The cost of healthcare is a major concern for many individuals, families, and communities. Health policy affects the affordability of healthcare services by determining how healthcare services are paid for and how much individuals, families, and employers are required to pay for healthcare [3]. Policies that aim to make healthcare more affordable, such as the Affordable Care Act, can help to reduce financial barriers to care and improve access to care. On the other hand, policies that increase the cost of healthcare, such as the elimination of subsidies for individuals and families, can have a negative impact on the affordability of care and lead to reduced access to care.

Health Outcomes

Health policy also affects health outcomes by determining how healthcare services are delivered and how health outcomes are measured and evaluated. Policies that promote quality and evidence-based care, such as the Affordable Care Act, can improve health outcomes and reduce disparities in health outcomes between different populations. For example, policies that invest in public health initiatives, such as vaccination programs, can prevent the spread of infectious diseases and improve overall health outcomes. On the other hand, policies that restrict access to care, such as limits on Medicaid funding; can have a negative impact on health outcomes and increase disparities in health outcomes between different populations [4].

Health policy plays a crucial role in shaping the health and well-being of individuals, communities, and nations. It affects access to quality healthcare, the affordability of healthcare services, and health outcomes. Understanding the impact of health policy on our lives is essential for ensuring that healthcare systems are designed to meet the needs of individuals, families, and communities, and for promoting health and well-being for all. In conclusion, the impact of health policy on our lives cannot be overstated. It is important for individuals, families, and communities to be informed and engaged in the health policy process, to ensure that health policies promote access to quality care, affordability of healthcare services, and improved health outcomes for all [5].

References

  1. Health TL. Mental health matters. Lancet Glob Health. 2020;8(11):1352.

    2. Indexed at, Google Scholar, Cross Ref

  2. Keller A, Litzelman K, Wisk LE, et al. Does the perception that stress affects health matter? The association with health and mortality. Health Psychol. 2012;31(5):677.

    3. Indexed at, Google Scholar, Cross Ref

  3. Cheek J, Gibson T. Policy matters: critical policy analysis and nursing. J Adv Nurs. 1997;25(4):668-72.

    4. Indexed at, Google Scholar, Cross Ref

  4. Piontek D, Buehler A, Rudolph U, et al. Social contexts in adolescent smoking: does school policy matter? Health Educ Res. 2008;23(6):1029-38.

    5. Indexed at, Google Scholar, Cross Ref

  5. Oliver TR. The politics of public health policy. Annu Rev Public Health. 2006;27:195-233.

    6. Indexed at, Google Scholar, Cross Ref

Get the App