EVIDENCE BASE IN DESIGN

When politics and medical science intersect, there can be much debate. Sometimes anecdotes or hearsay are misused as evidence to support a particular point. Despite these and other challenges, however, evidence-based approaches are increasingly used to inform health policy decision-making regarding causes of disease, intervention strategies, and issues impacting society. One example is the introduction of childhood vaccinations and the use of evidence-based arguments surrounding their safety.

In this Discussion, you will identify a recently proposed health policy and share your analysis of the evidence in support of this policy.

To Prepare:

• Review the Congress website provided in the Resources and identify one recent (within the past 5 years) proposed health policy.
• Review the health policy you identified and reflect on the background and development of this health policy.

Post a description of the health policy you selected and a brief background for the problem or issue being addressed. Which social determinant most affects this policy? Explain whether you believe there is an evidence base to support the proposed policy and explain why. Be specific and provide examples.

SOLUTION

H.R. 197 – Rural Telehealth Expansion Act of 2023

Introduced in House 01/09/2023

Telehealth encompasses healthcare services provided via video and audio technology. Originally, the concept was developed with the aim of providing basic care to underserved and rural patients. Higher usage rates of telehealth tend to be now standard in different practices, more so in the wake of the Covid-19 pandemic. There is a growing emphasis on cost minimization, patient satisfaction, and the provision of high-quality and efficient care as a manifestation of……………………….$5