Grassroots to Policy

Grassroots to Policy • Category: Discussions
Discussion Prompt
Select and describe the key characteristics of one vulnerable population from your practice or locale and discuss why this population is considered vulnerable. Include one or two health practices and beliefs of the chosen population that increases the vulnerability of the population. Describe how you, in an advanced nursing role, could be an advocate for this vulnerable population at the local, state or national level.
Expectations
Initial Posh
• Due: Thursday, 11:59 pm PT • Length: A minimum of 250 wo.s, not including references • Citations: At least one high-level scholarly reference in APA from within the last 5 Years
One vulnerable population that is prevalent in many communities is the homeless population. Homelessness is a complex issue that affects individuals and families across all age, gender, and ethnic groups. Homelessness is defined as individuals who lack a fixed, regular, and adequate nighttime residence. According to the National Alliance to End Homelessness, in 2020, there were an estimated 580,000 people experiencing homelessness on any given night in the United States.

Homelessness is considered a vulnerable population for several reasons. Homeless individuals are at higher risk for various physical and mental health problems, including chronic illnesses, infectious diseases, substance use disorders, and mental health disorders. They are also more likely to experience violence and trauma, including physical and sexual assault. Homeless individuals often lack access to basic needs such as food, water, shelter, and hygiene, which can negatively impact their health and well-being.

One health practice and belief that increases the vulnerability of the homeless population is limited access to healthcare. Homeless individuals face many barriers to accessing healthcare services, including lack of transportation, inability to pay, and limited availability of healthcare providers. Homeless individuals also tend to have a distrust of healthcare providers and may delay seeking care until their condition worsens.

As an advanced nursing practitioner, I can be an advocate for homeless individuals at the local, state, or national level. At the local level, I can work with local shelters, soup kitchens, and community health clinics to provide basic healthcare services and promote health education. I can also collaborate with community organizations to provide resources such as food, shelter, and transportation.

At the state level, I can work with policymakers to advocate for increased funding for healthcare services for homeless individuals. I can also advocate for policies that promote housing stability and support services for individuals experiencing homelessness.

At the national level, I can advocate for policies that address the root causes of homelessness, such as poverty, lack of affordable housing, and inadequate access to healthcare. I can also work with national organizations to raise awareness about the issues facing homeless individuals and promote policy changes to address these issues.

In conclusion, the homeless population is a vulnerable population that faces significant health disparities and barriers to accessing healthcare services. As an advanced nursing practitioner, I can advocate for homeless individuals at the local, state, and national level by providing healthcare services, collaborating with community organizations, and advocating for policy changes that address the root causes of homelessness.