- Introduction: Introduce the health disparity you have selected and describe how this disparity impacts the health of the community.
- Actions to Address: Based on your research, identify 35 actions that could impact this disparity and lead to better health outcomes for the population impacted.
- Policy/Legislation: Identify existing health policy/legislation or propose new health policy/legislation (clarify whether this would be at the state or federal level) that could address this disparity. Discuss the type or form of health care policy and how it could be implemented.
- Conclusion: Explain the anticipated results and time frame.
Presentation: Impact of Health Care Policy and Determinants
You are serving in the role of a public health consultant. As the subject matter expert, you have been asked to identify a key social determinant and propose a potential solution through the development of health policy either at the state or federal level. You will present your findings at the next town council meeting.
Select 1 social determinant of health that resonates with you and/or is present in the community you reside in.
Create a 5- to 7-slide (not including the title slide and reference slide) presentation with voiceover to share at an upcoming town council meeting. Include the following in your presentation:
Title: Addressing Food Insecurity Through Health Policy
Introduction
Good evening esteemed council members, I am here today to shed light on a pressing health disparity in our community - food insecurity. Food insecurity is not merely about hunger; it is about the lack of consistent access to enough food for an active, healthy life for all household members. This disparity impacts the health of our community by increasing the risk of chronic diseases, mental health issues, and poor developmental outcomes, particularly among children.
Actions to Address
1. Enhanced Nutrition Programs: Expanding programs like SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) to provide more comprehensive support for low-income families.
2. Community Gardens and Farmers' Markets: Increasing access to fresh, affordable produce through community gardens and farmers' markets in underserved areas.
3. Food Recovery Programs: Supporting initiatives that redirect surplus food from restaurants and grocery stores to community organizations serving those in need.
Policy/Legislation
Proposing new health policy/legislation at the state level to tackle food insecurity:
- Healthy Food Financing Initiative: Establishing a program to provide financial incentives for grocery stores to open in food deserts.
- Nutrition Education in Schools: Mandating nutrition education curriculum in schools to promote healthy eating habits from a young age.
Conclusion
By implementing these measures swiftly, we can expect to see a significant reduction in food insecurity rates within our community. The Healthy Food Financing Initiative, coupled with nutrition education in schools, can pave the way for healthier lifestyles and improved overall well-being. It is imperative that we act promptly to address this critical issue and strive towards a healthier, more equitable future for all community members. Thank you for your attention.