Policy competence refers to the ability of a professional to partake efficiently in the preparation and implementation of relevant policies. In the case of healthcare, this term implies that this ability is applied to health-related policies that affect the particular area of expertise, in which a medical professional operates (Meacham, 2020). Indeed, the key property of health policy competence is to ensure informed and competent decision-making that will benefit the system of healthcare. However, it is not limited to making the policies, as the concept also refers to understanding them and implementing in the workplace. In other words, policy-competent healthcare professionals understand the purposes and aims of a specific initiative, correctly outlining their priorities in the delivery of care. As a result, the system operates under higher standards, providing better quality of care and contributing to the health and well-being of the population.
In addition to the factor of professional expertise, policymaking in healthcare relies on four ethical principles, which are respect, justice, beneficence, and nonmaleficence. These considerations guide policymakers’ decisions, implementing additional criteria that influence their initiatives (Meacham, 2020). For example, an idea may be brought to the table for discussion that can reduce the number of readmissions by 35% in one year. However, in order to implement this initiative, it will be necessary to overrule patients’ autonomous decisions in some cases. A competent policymakers will rightfully decline this idea as it does not align with the principle of respect.
Correct, informed decisions are the product of efficient work that can be put within a five-step framework. First, the path begins with observing the situation and identifying the issue. Second, a competent policymaker should assess the situation, preparing a rationale for the change. Third, important public policy information needs to be tracked over time. Fourth, forecasting is necessary to estimate the required timeline for the policy to influence the field. Finally, the effect is attained during the fifth step of the process (Meacham, 2020). If the preparations were executed with due diligence and competence, the obtained effect will be positive in terms of mitigating the issues within the professional sphere.
Reference
Meacham, M. R. (2020). Longest’s health policymaking in the United States (7th ed.). AUPHA/HAP Book.