To Prepare:
- Review the Resources and reflect on your thinking regarding the role of the nurse in the design and implementation of new healthcare programs.
- Select a healthcare program within your practice and consider the design and implementation of this program.
- Reflect on advocacy efforts and the role of the nurse in relation to healthcare program design and implementation.
The Assignment: (2–4 pages)
In a 2- to 4-page paper, create an interview transcript of your responses to the following interview questions:
- Tell us about a healthcare program, within your practice. What are the costs and projected outcomes of this program?
- Who is your target population?
- What is the role of the nurse in providing input for the design of this healthcare program? Can you provide examples?
- What is your role as an advocate for your target population for this healthcare program? Do you have input into design decisions? How else do you impact design?
- What is the role of the nurse in healthcare program implementation? How does this role vary between design and implementation of healthcare programs? Can you provide examples?
- Who are the members of a healthcare team that you believe are most needed to implement a program? Can you explain why?
Interviewer: So, tell us about a healthcare program within your practice. What are the costs and projected outcomes of this program?
You: The healthcare program I’m involved in focuses on diabetes management for underserved communities. The costs primarily involve staffing, resources for education materials, and technology for remote monitoring. Our projected outcomes include improved glycemic control, reduced hospitalizations due to complications, and enhanced patient education leading to better self-management.
Interviewer: Who is your target population?
You: Our target population comprises low-income individuals with limited access to healthcare resources and education, especially those diagnosed with diabetes or at risk of developing it.
Interviewer: What is the role of the nurse in providing input for the design of this healthcare program? Can you provide examples?
You: Nurses play a pivotal role in program design. For instance, we actively contribute insights into patient education strategies, suggest technological tools for remote monitoring, and propose community outreach initiatives to increase program accessibility.
Interviewer: What is your role as an advocate for your target population for this healthcare program? Do you have input into design decisions? How else do you impact design?
You: Advocacy for the target population involves voicing their needs in program planning. We actively participate in interdisciplinary meetings, ensuring that the program addresses specific challenges faced by our community. Our input ranges from suggesting culturally sensitive approaches to advocating for resources that enhance patient engagement.
Interviewer: What is the role of the nurse in healthcare program implementation? How does this role vary between design and implementation of healthcare programs? Can you provide examples?
You: In implementation, nurses serve as frontline implementers, educating patients, facilitating access to resources, and collecting data for program evaluation. During design, our role involves more strategic planning and decision-making. For example, in the design phase, we might collaborate with tech teams to create user-friendly monitoring apps, whereas in implementation, we train patients on using these tools effectively.
Interviewer: Who are the members of a healthcare team that you believe are most needed to implement a program? Can you explain why?
You: In my view, a cohesive interdisciplinary team comprising nurses, physicians, dietitians, community health workers, and social workers is essential. Each member brings a unique perspective and skill set necessary for holistic patient care. Nurses bridge gaps between different specialties, ensuring seamless communication and coordination for effective program implementation.