In this Assignment, you will practice applying this expertise and insight by selecting an existing healthcare program or policy evaluation and reflecting on the criteria used to measure the effectiveness of the program/policy.

First Part: Template

Title Page

• Title of Paper
• Student’s name
• Institution

Introduction:

• Overview of program/policy assessment
• Nurses’ role in evaluation of programs and policies explained
• What is the purpose of the document?

Background:

• Evaluation of the selected healthcare policy/program
• The history of the policy/program
• Explain the goals and purpose of the policy/program

Assessment Criteria

• Identifying the criteria that will be used to measure the success of the policy/program
• Explain each criteria and its importance
• Relevance of criteria in relation to program/policy evaluation

Analysis:

• Analysis of the program/policy’s effectiveness based on the evaluation criteria
• Discuss the strength and weakness of the policy/program based on evaluation criteria

Recommendations:

• Based on evaluation criteria, make recommendations to improve the program/policy.
• Discussion on potential obstacles in implementing recommendations
• Discuss the potential results of implementation of recommendations

Conclusion:

• Evaluation findings summarized
• Conclusions regarding the effectiveness of a program/policy
• Final thoughts on the importance of program/policy evaluation and nursing’s role in the process

References:

• List of references cited within the text, in APA style

The Second Part: Paper

Introduction:

Evaluation of policies and programs is a vital process to improve the outcomes and quality for populations served. With their patient advocacy and expertise, nurses can be a key part of evaluating program/policy assessment. The purpose of this article is to reflect upon the evaluation criteria for a healthcare program/policy.

Background:

This paper will evaluate the Affordable Care act (ACA) as a healthcare policy/program. The Affordable Care Act was enacted on March 10, with the goals of improving health care quality and reducing costs. The ACA is a controversial policy. Its effectiveness has been questioned by both its supporters and detractors.

Assessment Criteria

Criteria used to measure the impact of the ACA are:

1. Access to health coverage is being expanded
2. Improved healthcare quality
3. Reducing healthcare costs

Analysis:

In accordance with the evaluation criteria the ACA is effective in increasing healthcare coverage. A report from the US Department of Health and Human Services shows that the ACA has led to a substantial increase in individuals who have healthcare coverage. According to a report by the US Department of Health and Human Services, the ACA resulted in a significant increase in individuals who have healthcare coverage.

The ACA is also an effective tool in improving quality healthcare. Hospital Value Based Purchasing Program is an example of a quality improvement initiative that the ACA has implemented to encourage hospitals and healthcare providers to enhance the care they deliver. The ACA has also established the Center for Medicare and Medicaid Innovation to test new payment and services delivery models. This is done in an effort to improve the quality of healthcare and lower costs.

The ACA, however, has had less success in reducing the cost of healthcare. The ACA has implemented several measures to reduce costs, including the Independent Payment Advisory Board. This board is tasked to identify and implement cost-savings measures. However, healthcare in the United States continues its upward trend.

Recommendations:

The following recommendations will help improve the effectiveness of ACA:

1. Prioritize cost-saving strategies: The ACA needs to focus more on cost saving measures in order to make healthcare affordable and accessible for all.
2. Expanding access to health insurance: Although the ACA has increased coverage for many, there are still a large number of people who do not have coverage. All individuals should have access to health insurance under the ACA.
3. The United States continues to face a serious issue with healthcare disparities. The ACA must focus on addressing disparities in healthcare and ensuring all Americans have access to quality care.