Colorado has different committees and groups that focus on the unique issues affecting the population. These boards come up with policy ideas and programs that can be implemented to meet the diverse needs of the people. This exercise guided me to monitor the functions and goals of one of these groups in the state. The targeted group was the Colorado Commission on Affordable Health Care (CCAHC).
Critical Observations
The agenda of the committee was to identify and propose new practices to deliver affordable health care to the elderly members of the society. According to the policymakers, minimal strategies had been designed to meet the health needs of retirees and other elderly individuals above the age of 65. In order to come up with the best ideas, the committee attracted different stakeholders such as healthcare professionals, community members, and government experts. The next thing was to engage in interactions and discussions in order to understand the major issues affecting the underserved population.
The team outlined a smooth process characterized by three steps. These included discussions, analyses, and propositions. The proposals obtained from these discussions would then be presented to the governor for implementation. Throughout the process, it was notable that the public in attendance interacted positively with the policymaking group. This was also the same case with the other key stakeholders. The meeting managed to come up with meaningful insights or outcomes. The policymaking group outlined the need for home nursing services and financial support to address the health needs of the target population.
Analysis
From the above observations, it is agreeable that the group is appropriate and relevant in developing superior public policies. The group used evidence-based ideas and analyses in an attempt to understand the unique issues affecting senior citizens. The inclusion of different stakeholders and members of the public is a clear indication that the group is important when it comes to the development of public policy. The move will continue to address health care administration issues and needs of more people in the state.
Lessons from the Experience
This experience has taught me the importance of supporting every policymaking process. An analysis of the issues affecting different people can guide the policymaking process. Collaboration with stakeholders and professionals can deliver meaningful results. Another issue is that of partisanship. From the observation, it was clear that partisanship was not evident in the group. The members mainly focused on the real issues affecting different people in Colorado. This understanding encouraged the group to come up with appropriate ideas and proposals that could meet the diverse health needs of the target population.
Participating in the Process
The ideas, skills, and insights gained from this exercise will definitely support my future roles as a healthcare practitioner. I will constantly analyze a wide range of issues affecting the population I serve. This understanding will guide me to become part of the policymaking process. I will be in a position to offer meaningful ideas supported by facts. The presented information will then guide and make it easier for the policymaking group to address various health concerns that have been ignored before. This kind of participation will foster new practices and programs that can support the health needs of many underserved populations in the region. I would also encourage my colleagues to participate in the process in order to transform the state’s health care sector.