| Learning Objective #1: Articulate two diverse perspectives related to health care policy | |||
| Learning Objective #2: Identify strategies that impact health care policy from both a state-based interest group perspective, as well as a global humanitarian perspective |
This presentation features two doctoral studies in public policy. The first study relates to strategies used by interest groups at the state level that impact health care policy. The second study relates to strategies used by military International Health Specialists (IHS) to promote health care through global diplomacy. Comparing these studies gives a local to global perspective on health policy and strategies used to create change.
Study I
Objective: To identify the strategies utilized by state-based health policy interest groups; and to explore the impact of internal organizational structures and resources, membership characteristics, sources of financial support, and political environment on the group’s strategic choices.
Design and Methods: This study utilized a qualitative, descriptive approach with data collection via face-to-face interviews.
Sample, Setting, Year: A purposive sample of 16 Alabama health policy interest groups in 2002.
Concept: There are various internal and external organizational factors that influence the strategy choices of interest groups.
Findings: The political behavior of these groups appears to be linked to specific policy issues as well as to various organizational factors.
Study II
Objective: To evaluate the implementation of the IHS program and the role of military medics in expeditionary medical diplomacy.
Design and Methods: Teleconference minutes and an online survey were used to collect information relating to role, knowledge and skills, training, values, activities, and outcomes.
Sample, Setting, Year: All IHS personnel with an email address were contacted in 2002. The setting was on the Internet.
Concept: The concept of expeditionary medical diplomacy as a strategy to achieve change and promote global health is explored.
Findings: IHS personnel have accomplished a variety of humanitarian and disaster response missions.
Implications of both studies: Even though perspectives differed, specific strategies were identified as effective in promoting global and local health policy.
Back to Health Policy
Back to 14th International Nursing Research Congress
Sigma Theta Tau International
10-12 July 2003