The selected healthcare concern in Pembroke Pines, FL that requires advocacy with an elected official is the need for improved mental health services in the city. The impetus for this selection stems from the significant impact that mental health issues have on individuals, families, and the community as a whole. Mental health disorders, such as anxiety, depression, and substance abuse, are prevalent in Pembroke Pines and have a substantial burden on both the affected individuals and the healthcare system.
Mental health disorders are pervasive in Pembroke Pines. According to the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), around one in five Americans experience mental illness in a given year, and Florida has a higher prevalence compared to the national average. The situation in Pembroke Pines follows this trend, with a significant portion of the population experiencing mental health issues. Notably, the COVID-19 pandemic has exacerbated these struggles, leading to increased rates of anxiety and depression.
The rationale for selecting improved mental health services as the healthcare concern requiring advocacy is twofold. First, the impact of mental health disorders on individuals and families can be severe. These conditions can impair an individual’s ability to function, negatively affect their relationships, and lead to a diminished quality of life. Without proper treatment and support, individuals with mental health issues may struggle to maintain employment, face financial difficulties, and experience a higher risk of homelessness. It is therefore crucial to address this concern to improve the well-being of the residents of Pembroke Pines.
Second, the lack of sufficient mental health services in Pembroke Pines places a strain on the healthcare system. Mental health disorders often require long-term care, and without adequate resources, individuals may turn to emergency departments for treatment. This not only increases healthcare costs but also puts a strain on other emergency services. By addressing the need for improved mental health services, the burden on the healthcare system can be alleviated.
The solution to this concern is to advocate for increased funding and resources for mental health services in Pembroke Pines. This would include funding for mental health clinics, community-based support programs, and collaborations with mental health professionals. Additionally, initiatives to enhance access to affordable mental health services, raise awareness about mental health, and reduce stigma should be part of the solution.
To effectively address this concern, the model of policy making that would be best applied is the rational-comprehensive model. The rational-comprehensive model is a systematic approach to policy-making that involves carefully analyzing the problem, considering various alternative solutions, and evaluating the costs, benefits, and feasibility of each option. This model is suitable for the complex issue of mental health services, as it allows for a comprehensive examination of all relevant factors.
The rationale for selecting the rational-comprehensive model is that it provides a systematic and evidence-based approach to policymaking. Mental health services require careful consideration of the needs of the community, the available resources, and the potential impacts of different policy options. By following the rational-comprehensive model, policymakers can gather and analyze relevant data, consider multiple perspectives, and make informed decisions.
Furthermore, the rational-comprehensive model supports transparency and public involvement in the policy-making process. Advocacy efforts should include engaging community stakeholders, such as mental health professionals, healthcare providers, patients, and their families. Through collaborative efforts and an evidence-based approach, the rational-comprehensive model can help ensure that the policy solution is well-informed and aligns with the needs and priorities of the community.
In conclusion, the selected healthcare concern in Pembroke Pines, FL that requires advocacy with an elected official is the need for improved mental health services. This concern is driven by the significant impact of mental health disorders on individuals, families, and the healthcare system. The solution involves advocating for increased funding and resources for mental health services, as well as initiatives to enhance access and reduce stigma. The rational-comprehensive model of policy making is the most suitable approach for addressing this concern, as it allows for a systematic and evidence-based examination of the problem and potential solutions.
