discussion

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Discussion #1:

A.) Social Determinants of Health -OR- B.) Health Systems Building Blocks

(Please select only one of the topics above to address in your Discussion #1 assignment, and follow the instructions for your chosen topic below. Also, in the subject line of your original

discussion post, please type your selection.)

Part 1: Original Post

A.) Social Determinants of Health

Social determinants of health can be the entry way into a health care system for various members of a population. According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), “these are conditions in the places where people live, learn, work, and play that affect a wide range of health risks and outcomes.” These outcomes may lead to health disparities and health equity gaps. Some examples of social determinants of health include: physical environment, socioeconomic status, and health behaviors, to name a few.

For this discussion, research the social determinants of health. What do you believe to be the top 5 most prevalent social determinants of health in your community (you define “community”)? Clearly list them in your discussion. How did they become prevalent? What or who caused it? In your opinion, how does the future look? Will things improve/change? Additionally, from the standpoint of a health care administrator, how would you take action to address the issue and provide a potential solution(s)?

This assignment encourages you to gain more knowledge about the social determinants of health, and analyze its effects on a population and the health care system that services this population.

Along with each social determinant please provide at least one paragraph describing the rationale behind your decision. Describe what makes the issue significant, etc. The discussion assignment should be a total of at least 5 paragraphs (with a 300 word minimum and 600 word maximum). Be certain that there is at least one paragraph for each social determinant of health. Feel free to use the course textbook and reputable outside sources to support your work (at least two credible sources should be used). Appropriately cite all sources using the APA 7th edition guidelines within the discussion text, and at the bottom of the discussion (in a reference section). Also, pay close attention to correct use of the English language, grammar and spelling.

Please post your original response directly into the discussion text box on the discussion due date, or before. You are welcome to copy your typed answer and paste it on the discussion post. Do not include it as an attachment.

B.) Health Systems Building Blocks

One can imagine the condition of a health care system without implementation of critical success factors, or the basic building blocks that are necessary for a strong foundation,

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continuous functioning and sustainability. For this discussion, research the health systems building blocks using your course textbook (pgs. 6-7) the World Health Organization (WHO) Health Systems Framework website, and any other related and credible resource. Select 3 building blocks to further discuss in your own words. Describe in detail why they are significant to the design of a successful health care system, thereby positively impacting the health of a population. What are some potential problems that might arise within a health care system when one or more of these areas fail to properly perform? Provide specific examples. As a health care administrator, how would you ensure the successful implementation of each? In terms of evaluating your chosen building blocks, what criteria would be needed to perform an in-depth evaluation of each? How would you determine whether or not these criteria were met?

This assignment encourages you to gain more knowledge about the health systems building blocks, and analyze its effects on a population and the health care system that services this population.

The discussion assignment should be a total of at least 3 paragraphs (with a 300 word minimum and 600 word maximum). Be certain that there is at least one paragraph for each health systems building block. Feel free to use the course textbook and reputable outside sources to support your work (at least two credible sources should be used). Appropriately cite all sources using the APA 7th edition guidelines within the discussion text, and at the bottom of the discussion (in a reference section). Also, pay close attention to correct use of the English language, grammar and spelling.

Please post your original response directly into the discussion text box on the discussion due date, or before. You are welcome to copy your typed answer and paste it on the discussion post. Do not include it as an attachment.

Part 2: Response Posts

Follow the discussion by reading other students’ posts. You must comment on at least three other students’ posts. Your comments must be analytical, detailed, and demonstrate you are an informed university student. Respond to at least three of your classmates’ postings in one or more of the following ways: 1) Ask a probing question; 2) Expand on the classmate’s posting with additional insight and reputable resources; or 3) Offer polite and respectful disagreement or critique, supported with evidence. Your response to your classmates’ postings must be at least 75 words in length. Students must participate in all discussions, no exceptions.