NURS 6050 ASSESSING A HEALTHCARE PROGRAM/POLICY EVALUATION

NURS 6050 ASSESSING A HEALTHCARE PROGRAM/POLICY EVALUATION

Sample Answer for NURS 6050 ASSESSING A HEALTHCARE PROGRAM/POLICY EVALUATION Included After Question

Program/policy evaluation is a valuable tool that can help strengthen the quality of programs/policies and improve outcomes for the populations they serve. Program/policy evaluation answers basic questions about program/policy effectiveness. It involves collecting and analyzing information about program/policy activities, characteristics, and outcomes. This information can be used to ultimately improve program services or policy initiatives.

Nurses can play a very important role assessing program/policy evaluation for the same reasons that they can be so important to program/policy design. Nurses bring expertise and patient advocacy that can add significant insight and impact. In this Assignment, you will practice applying this expertise and insight by selecting an existing healthcare program or policy evaluation and reflecting on the criteria used to measure the effectiveness of the program/policy.

To Prepare:

  • Review the Healthcare Program/Policy Evaluation Analysis Template provided in the Resources.
  • Select an existing healthcare program or policy evaluation or choose one of interest to you.
  • Review community, state, or federal policy evaluation and reflect on the criteria used to measure the effectiveness of the program or policy described.

The Assignment: (2–3 pages)

Based on the program or policy evaluation you selected, complete the Healthcare Program/Policy Evaluation Analysis Template. Be sure to address the following:

  • Describe the healthcare program or policy outcomes.
  • How was the success of the program or policy measured?
  • How many people were reached by the program or policy selected?
  • How much of an impact was realized with the program or policy selected?
  • At what point in program implementation was the program or policy evaluation conducted?
  • What data was used to conduct the program or policy evaluation?
  • What specific information on unintended consequences was identified?
  • What stakeholders were identified in the evaluation of the program or policy? Who would benefit most from the results and reporting of the program or policy evaluation? Be specific and provide examples.
  • Did the program or policy meet the original intent and objectives? Why or why not?
  • Would you recommend implementing this program or policy in your place of work? Why or why not?
  • Identify at least two ways that you, as a nurse advocate, could become involved in evaluating a program or policy after 1 year of implementation.

By Day 7 of Week 10

NURS 6050 ASSESSING A HEALTHCARE PROGRAM POLICY EVALUATION
NURS 6050 ASSESSING A HEALTHCARE PROGRAM POLICY EVALUATION

Submit your completed healthcare program/policy evaluation analysis.

Submission and Grading Information

To submit your completed Assignment for review and grading, do the following:

  • Please save your Assignment using the naming convention “WK10Assgn+last name+first initial.(extension)” as the name.
  • Click the Week 10 Assignment Rubric to review the Grading Criteria for the Assignment.
  • Click the Week 10 Assignment link. You will also be able to “View Rubric” for grading criteria from this area.
  • Next, from the Attach File area, click on the Browse My Computer button. Find the document you saved as “WK10Assgn+last name+first initial.(extension)” and click Open.
  • If applicable: From the Plagiarism Tools area, click the checkbox for I agree to submit my paper(s) to the Global Reference Database.
  • Click on the Submit button to complete your submission.
  • Due to the nature of this assignment, your instructor may require more than 5 days to provide you with quality feedback.

A Sample Answer For the Assignment: NURS 6050 ASSESSING A HEALTHCARE PROGRAM/POLICY EVALUATION

Title: NURS 6050 ASSESSING A HEALTHCARE PROGRAM/POLICY EVALUATION 

Healthcare programs or policies can be state-based, community-based, or at the organizational level. They are formulated to address specific health programs. Evaluation helps to determine healthcare programs’ effectiveness. In most cases, evaluation is progressive if the program or policy is continuous. It can also be done at different intervals depending on the objectives. The purpose of this program evaluation analysis is to examine the Racial and Ethnic Approaches to Community Health (REACH) program, whose main aim is to reduce racial and ethnic health disparities. 

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Healthcare Program/Policy Evaluation  The Racial and Ethnic Approaches to Community Health (REACH) program evaluation  
Description  The REACH program started in 1999 to reduce racial and ethnic health disparities (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 2020). It is a national program administered by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Generally, the program’s recipients carry out extensive local and culturally appropriate programs to address a wide range of issues faced by racial and ethnic minorities such as African Americans, Hispanics, and American Indians. The primary objective is to promote health disparities related to chronic illnesses, mental health, preventive health, and overall health coverage (Carratala & Maxwell, 2020). The program also seeks to improve healthy behaviors. 
How was the success of the program or policy measured? 

 

After a decade, the REACH had significant success as far as its targets are concerned. However, instead of evaluating the program generally, REACH uses data to evaluate the change in the health status of its target communities. For instance, it used data between 2014 and 2018 to assess the number of people it has helped access healthy foods, access to chronic health programs, and opportunities for physical activity. A progressive increase in the population it serves is the primary success indicator. 
How many people were reached by the program or policy selected? How much of an impact was realized with the program or policy selected? 

 

 

The evaluation between 2014 and 2018 showed that millions of people have benefitted in various ways under the REACH program. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (2020), over 2.9 million people had better access to healthy foods and beverages, while over 322,000 people benefitted directly from tobacco-free interventions. CDC further reported that about 1.4 million people got opportunities for physical activity, as over 830,000 people got access to chronic disease programs (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 2020). Using these reflection points, there is no denying that the impact of the REACH program cannot be underestimated. 

At what point in program implementation was the program or policy evaluation conducted?  The REACH program is continuous, where evaluation is done at different implementation points. In most cases, evaluation happens after the completion of a project at the community level. As illustrated in the various CDC reports, evaluation can be after a decade or after some years, depending on the element being assessed. 
What data was used to conduct the program or policy evaluation? 

 

Change in health behaviors was the reference data for the evaluation between 2001 and 2009. For instance, Hispanic taking medication for hypertension increased from less than half to more than two-thirds of the affected population. In the same period, vaccination rates for pneumonia increased from 50.5% to 60.5% in black communities (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 2020). The other data is the impact across REACH communities through a 2009-2012 evaluation. The data examined reduction in smoking and obesity rates in REACH communities. 
What specific information on unintended consequences was identified? 

 

 

The program’s impact is huge as far as disparities’ reduction is concerned. However, impact evaluation showed that ethnic gaps continue being affected by societies, culture, and the environment (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 2021). As a result, REACH must use many strategies to address health gaps to ensure that health performance in ethnic and racial minorities reaches the desired state. 

What stakeholders were identified in the evaluation of the program or policy? Who would benefit most from the results and reporting of the program or policy evaluation? Be specific and provide examples.   

REACH partners with local health departments, community-based organizations, universities, and tribes. Respective partners were consulted during program evaluation to determine success and areas of improvement. On who would benefit from results and reporting of the program evaluation, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention would be the primary beneficiary. CDC would use the report to examine the health performance in the minority groups as the basis of improving outcomes or using other interventions to supplement outcomes. 

 

 

 

 

Did the program or policy meet the original intent and objectives? Why or why not? 

 

 

To a huge extent, REACH achieved the original intent using the data from the different evaluations. CDC reports reveal significant community successes, including reducing chronic illnesses and unhealthy behaviors such as smoking as access to healthy food and beverages and physical health activities increases. 

Would you recommend implementing this program or policy in your place of work? Why or why not? 

 

 

I would recommend the program in my place of work. Firstly, health care organizations should partners with national and community-based organizations to reduce health disparities. Carratala and Maxwell (2020) reported that ethnic and racial minorities continue to be burdened by chronic illnesses and mental health problems. Since such illness burden at the communities has a domino effect in health care organizations, it is crucial to implement the REACH program to improve health outcomes in underserved populations.  

 

Identify at least two ways that you, as a nurse advocate, could become involved in evaluating a program or policy after one year of implementation. 

 

One way I could be involved in evaluating a program after one year of implementation is by being part of the evaluation committee. Here, I can share my knowledge on the reference points to consider when determining whether a program was a success or not. The other way is to avail information concerning the program by performing individual research. My information would guide on how to conduct a summative evaluation of the program. 
General Notes/Comments  Evaluation reliably indicates whether a program achieved the desired outcomes. Healthcare programs can be at the state, community, or organizational levels, and their evaluation can be yearly, terminal, or progressive, as considered appropriate. Nurses should advocate for program evaluation to determine their success and provide the basis for continuous improvement. 

 

References 

Carratala, S., & Maxwell, C. (2020, May 7). Health disparities by race and ethnicity. Center for American Progress. https://www.americanprogress.org/issues/race/reports/2020/05/07/484742/health-disparities-race-ethnicity/ 

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2020, Mar 10).REACH program impact. https://www.cdc.gov/nccdphp/dnpao/state-local-programs/reach/program_impact/index.htm 

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2021, Jul 15). Racial and ethnic approaches to community health. https://www.cdc.gov/nccdphp/dnpao/state-local-programs/reach/index.htm 

A Sample Answer 2 For the Assignment: NURS 6050 ASSESSING A HEALTHCARE PROGRAM/POLICY EVALUATION

Title: NURS 6050 ASSESSING A HEALTHCARE PROGRAM/POLICY EVALUATION 

The purpose of this work is to conduct a comprehensive analysis of the New York State Medicaid program’s Children’s Design Evaluation. This involves a detailed examination of the program’s implementation, outcomes, and impact on the health of children and youth under age 21 in New York State. The goal is to identify the program’s strengths and areas for improvement, assess its effectiveness in meeting its original objectives, and provide recommendations for future policy and program development. This analysis will contribute to the ongoing efforts to improve healthcare services and outcomes for children and youth in New York State. As a nurse advocate, the insights gained from this analysis will inform advocacy efforts and guide interventions to enhance the health and well-being of this population.

In conclusion, the program represents a significant effort to improve the health outcomes of the target audience. The program’s focus on early intervention and prevention is commendable, and its potential impact is substantial. However, the program has faced challenges in its implementation, and these challenges highlight the importance of careful planning, resource allocation, and ongoing evaluation in implementing such a program.

The analysis of the program’s evaluation has provided valuable insights into its effectiveness and areas for improvement. As a nurse advocate, these insights can inform your advocacy efforts and guide interventions to enhance the health and well-being of this population. Despite the challenges, the program has the potential to make a significant positive impact on the health outcomes of children and youth in New York State. With ongoing evaluation and adjustment, the program could make significant strides in achieving its objectives.

This work underscores the importance of program evaluation in healthcare policy and program development. It highlights the role of healthcare providers, particularly nurses, in this process. Their experience and patient advocacy can enhance health outcomes for the populations they serve. Moving forward, it is crucial to continue evaluating and refining healthcare programs and policies to ensure they effectively meet the needs of their target populations. This will contribute to the ongoing efforts to improve healthcare services and outcomes for the target population.

New York State Medicaid program’s Children’s Design Evaluation Analysis Template

Healthcare Program/Policy Evaluation New York State Medicaid program’s Children’s Design
Description The program is an amendment to the existing 1115 waiver program. It was implemented on August 2, 2019. It simplified care for kids and teens below age 21 who need home- and community-based physical and behavioral health treatments. The state could move services covered by the consolidated Children’s Waiver from fee-for-service to Medicaid managed care (MMC) and target eligibility to medically needy family-of-one children who meet clinical criteria and are enrolled in the waiver but do not qualify for Medicaid due to family income (Harry et al., 2021).
How was the success of the program or policy measured?

 

The success of the program was measured through an ongoing evaluation process. It assessed how well special needs children could access primary care practitioners who understood them and the magnitude to which enrollees were accessing home- and community-based services (HCBS) promptly resulting in improved health care outcomes (Harry et al., 2021).
How many people were reached by the program or policy selected? How much of an impact was realized with the program or policy selected? The program was aimed at providing health insurance for children without insurance who were ineligible for Medicaid. The interim review revealed that parents of children with chronic diseases exhibited considerable satisfaction with their primary care providers. However, they expressed lower levels of satisfaction with their ability to obtain specialized equipment and therapies, as well as coordination efforts across numerous healthcare providers. Initially, the levels of quality indicators for children were relatively stable, except for certain primary care indicators for small children, which showed improvement. Improvements were also shown in various indicators, such as the frequency of preventive visits, rates of immunization, utilization of the medical home for healthcare, adherence to preventative instructions, and the parent-reported health status of the child.
At what point in program implementation was the program or policy evaluation conducted? Evaluation is still ongoing but, the interim evaluation was conducted after the program’s implementation (Rand.org, n.d).
What data was used to conduct the program or policy evaluation? Data on quality indicators for children, satisfaction levels of parents of children with chronic conditions, and perceptions of stakeholders were used to conduct the policy evaluation
What specific information on unintended consequences were identified? Stakeholders found the transition to the Children’s Design to be difficult and expressed specific concerns around the impact on children’s families in terms of accessing care and the potential decrease in service availability. This implies that although the program has achieved certain favorable effects, there might still be room for enhancement to fully achieve its planned results. Subsequent assessments will yield more extensive understanding of the program’s influence (Harry et al., 2021).
What stakeholders were identified in the evaluation of the program or policy? Who would benefit most from the results and reporting of the program or policy evaluation? Be specific and provide examples. Stakeholders identified in the evaluation include providers, advocates, Medicaid Managed Care plan representatives, and government partners. The stakeholders, as well as the families and children who are recipients of the program, would derive the most advantages from the outcomes and documentation of the program evaluation. The evaluation results can inform improvements to the program that directly impact their health outcomes. For example, the evaluation identified specific areas where service accessibility or quality is lacking, the program can be adjusted to address these issues, leading to better health outcomes for the children and youth involved.

In addition, healthcare providers and the New York State government can also benefit significantly from the evaluation results. The providers can use the results to improve their practices and workflows, while the government can use the results to make informed decisions about funding and policy directions.

Did the program or policy meet the original intent and objectives? Why or why not? Based on the interim findings from the independent evaluation, the program met its original intent of streamlining care for kids and teens who are below the age of 21. However, there were challenges in the transition to the Children’s Design, particularly concerning the burden of accessing care on children’s families and reductions in service availability.

These findings suggest that while the program has made some progress towards its objectives, there are areas where it has not fully met its original intent. The challenges in transitioning to the new design and the concerns about access to care and service availability indicate that there is room for improvement in the program’s implementation. However, the improvement in some primary care indicators for young children is a positive sign that the program is having some impact.

Would you recommend implementing this program or policy in your place of work? Why or why not? Yes, I would recommend this program in my place of work. The program’s focus on early intervention and prevention aligns with the goals of many healthcare facilities to provide comprehensive and proactive care. The program has potential benefits in streamlining care for children in need. Yet, it’s important to consider the challenges identified in the evaluation and develop mitigation strategies.
Identify at least two ways that you, as a nurse advocate, could become involved in evaluating a program or policy after one year of implementation. As a nurse advocate, I could contribute to the policy evaluation by:

  1. Assisting in the collecting of data that might be used to analyze the policy’s efficiency and effectiveness.
  2. Conduct surveys or interviews with patients and families to gather feedback on the program.
  3. Analyze patient outcomes and service usage data to assess the effectiveness of the program
  4. Providing feedback on the program’s effectiveness based on my observations and experiences.
  5. Volunteering to partake in policy review meetings after I have identified the legislators involved (Milstead and short, 2019).
General Notes/Comments The initiative aimed to enhance clinical and recovery health outcomes for children and teenagers who require behavioral health and Home and Community Based Services (HCBS). Additionally, its objective is to enhance prompt availability of programs that cater to early childhood requirements, preventing them from escalating into more expensive and intricate issues in maturity. Despite some challenges, the program has the potential to make a positive impact on the health outcomes of these individuals. However, its success depends on careful implementation, ongoing evaluation, and the commitment and involvement of healthcare providers. As a nurse advocate, I would play a key role in this process by providing feedback on the program’s effectiveness based on my observations and experiences, and by advocating for the needs of the children and youth involved in the program.

 

References

Rand.org (n.d) Health Care Program Evaluation.  Retrieved February 3, 2024, from https://www.rand.org/topics/health-care-program-evaluation.html

Liu, Harry H., Joshua Breslau, Stephanie Rennane, Lisa Wagner, Annie Chen, Gabriela Alvarado, Ingrid Estrada-Darley, and Andrew W. Dick (2021), Independent Evaluation of the New York State 1115 Waiver Amendment: The Children’s Design: Interim Findings, RAND Corporation, RR-A782-1, 2021. As of January 25, 2024: https://www.rand.org/pubs/research_reports/RRA782-1.html

Milstead, J. A., & Short, N. M. (2019). Health policy and politics: A nurse’s guide (6th ed.). Jones & Bartlett Learning.

Rubric Detail

  Excellent Good Fair Poor
Program/Policy Evaluation

Based on the program or policy evaluation you seelcted, complete the Healthcare Program/Policy Evaluation Analysis Template. Be sure to address the following:

·   Describe the healthcare program or policy outcomes.

·   How was the success of the program or policy measured?

·   How many people were reached by the program or policy selected? How much of an impact was realized with the program or policy selected?

·   At what point in time in program implementation was the program or policy evaluation conducted?

32 (32%) – 35 (35%)

Using sufficient evidence, response clearly and accurately describes the healthcare program or policy outcomes.

Response accurately and clearly explains how the success of the program or policy was measured.

Response accurately and clearly describes how many people were reached by the program or policy and accurately describes the impact of the program or policy.

Response accurately and clearly indicates the point at which time the program or policy evaluation was conducted.

28 (28%) – 31 (31%)

Using sufficient evidence, response accurately describes the healthcare program or policy outcomes.

Response accurately explains how the success of the program or policy was measured.

Response accurately describes how many people were reached by the program or policy and accurately describes the impact of the program or policy.

Response accurately indicates the point at which time the program or policy evaluation was conducted.

25 (25%) – 27 (27%)

Description of the healthcare program or policy outcomes is inaccurate or incomplete.

Explanation of how the success of the program or policy was measured is inaccurate or incomplete.

Description of how many people were reached by the program or policy and the impact is vague or inaccurate.

Response vaguely describes the point at which the program or policy evaluation was conducted.

0 (0%) – 24 (24%)

Description of the healthcare program or policy outcomes is inaccurate and incomplete or is missing.

Explanation of how the success of the program or policy was measured is inaccurate and incomplete or is missing.

Description of how many people were reached by the program or policy and the associated impacts is vague and inaccurate or is missing.

Response of the point at which time the program or policy was conducted is missing.

Reporting of Program/Policy Evaluations

·   What data was used to conduct the program or policy evaluation?

·   What specific information on unintended consequences was identified?

·   What stakeholders were identified in the evaluation of the program or policy? Who would benefit the most from the results and reporting of the program or policy evaluation? Be specific and provide examples.

·   Did the program or policy meet the original intent and objectives? Why or why not?

·   Would you recommend implementing this program or policy in your place of work? Why or why not?

·   Identify at least two ways that you, as a nurse advocate, could become involved in evaluating a program or policy after 1 year of implementation.

45 (45%) – 50 (50%)

Response clearly and thoroughly explains in detail: -specific information on outcomes and unintended consequences identified through the program or policy evaluation. -the stakeholders involved in the program or policy evaluation. -who would benefit most from the results and reporting of the program or policy evaluation. -whether the program met the original intent and outcomes, including an accurate and detailed explanation of the reasons supporting why or why not. -whether the program should be implemented, including an accurate and detailed explanation of the reasons supporting why or why not. -at least two ways that the nurse advocate could become involved in the evaluation of the program or policy after 1 year of implementation.

40 (40%) – 44 (44%)

Using sufficient evidence, response accurately identifies the data used to conduct the program or policy evaluation. Response explains in detail specific information on outcomes and unintended consequences identified through the program or policy evaluation. Response explains in detail the stakeholders involved in the program or policy evaluation. Response explains who would benefit most from the results and reporting of the program or policy evaluation. Response includes an accurate explanation of whether the program met the original intent and outcomes, including an accurate explanation of the reasons supporting why or why not. Response includes an accurate explanation of whether the program should be implemented, including an accurate explanation of the reasons supporting why or why not. Response includes an accurate explanation of two ways that the nurse advocate could become involved in the evaluation of the program or policy after 1 year of implementation.

35 (35%) – 39 (39%)

Response vaguely or inaccurately identifies the data used to conduct the program or policy evaluation. Explanation of specific information on outcomes and unintended consequences identified through the program or policy evaluation is vague or incomplete. Explanation of the stakeholders involved in the program or policy evaluation is vague or inaccurate. Explanation of who would benefit most from the results and reporting of the program or policy evaluation is vague or inaccurate. Explanation of whether the program/policy met the original intent and outcomes, and the reasons why or why not is incomplete or inaccurate. Explanation of whether the program or policy should be implemented, and the reasons why or why not, is incomplete or inaccurate. Explanation of ways that the nurse advocate could become involved in the evaluation or policy after 1 year of implementation is incomplete or inaccurate.

0 (0%) – 34 (34%)

Identification of the data used to conduct the program or policy evaluation is vague and inaccurate or is missing. Response includes vague and incomplete or is missing explanation of: -specific information on outcomes and unintended consequences identified through the program or policy evaluation. -the stakeholders involved in the program or policy evaluation. -who would benefit most from the results and reporting of the program or policy evaluation. -whether the program or policy met the original intent and outcomes, and the reasons why or why not. -whether the program or policy should be implemented, and the reasons why or why not. -ways that the nurse advocate could become involved in the evaluation or policy after 1 year of implementation.

Written Expression and Formatting – Paragraph Development and Organization:

Paragraphs make clear points that support well developed ideas, low logically, and demonstrate continuity of ideas.
Sentences are carefully focused– neither long and rambling nor short and lacking substance. A clear and comprehensive purpose statement and introduction is provided which delineates all required criteria.

5 (5%) – 5 (5%)

Paragraphs and sentences follow writing standards for flow, continuity, and clarity.

A clear and comprehensive purpose statement, introduction, and conclusion is provided which delineates all required criteria.

4 (4%) – 4 (4%)

Paragraphs and sentences follow writing standards for flow, continuity, and clarity 80% of the time.

Purpose, introduction, and conclusion of the assignment is stated, yet is brief and not descriptive.

3 (3%) – 3 (3%)

Paragraphs and sentences follow writing standards for flow, continuity, and clarity 60%- 79% of the time.

Purpose, introduction, and conclusion of the assignment is vague or off topic.

0 (0%) – 2 (2%)

Paragraphs and sentences follow writing standards for flow, continuity, and clarity < 60% of the time.

Purpose, introduction, and conclusion of the assignment is incomplete or missing.

Written Expression and Formatting – English Writing Standards:

Correct grammar, mechanics, and proper punctuation

5 (5%) – 5 (5%)

Uses correct grammar, spelling, and punctuation with no errors.

4 (4%) – 4 (4%)

Contains a few (1-2) grammar, spelling, and punctuation errors.

3 (3%) – 3 (3%)

Contains several (3-4) grammar, spelling, and punctuation errors.

0 (0%) – 2 (2%)

Contains many (≥5) grammar, spelling, and punctuation errors that interfere with the reader’s understanding.

Written Expression and Formatting:

The paper follows correct APA format for title page, font, spacing, parenthetical/in-text citations, and reference list).

5 (5%) – 5 (5%)

Uses correct APA format with no errors.

4 (4%) – 4 (4%)

Contains a few (1-2) APA format errors.

3 (3%) – 3 (3%)

Contains several (3-4) APA format errors.

0 (0%) – 2 (2%)

Contains many (≥5) APA format errors.

Total Points: 100

Name: NURS_6050_Module05_Week10_Assignment_Rubric

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Grading Rubric

Performance Category 100% or highest level of performance

100%

16 points

Very good or high level of performance

88%

14 points

Acceptable level of performance

81%

13 points

Inadequate demonstration of expectations

68%

11 points

Deficient level of performance

56%

9 points

 

Failing level

of performance

55% or less

0 points

 Total Points Possible= 50           16 Points    14 Points 13 Points        11 Points           9 Points          0 Points
Scholarliness

Demonstrates achievement of scholarly inquiry for professional and academic topics.

Presentation of information was exceptional and included all of the following elements:

  • Provides evidence of scholarly inquiry relevant to required TD topic(s).
  • Presents specific information from scholarly sources to develop a comprehensive presentation of facts.
  • Uses at least one outside scholarly reference that is relevant, less than 5 years old (use of older references requires instructor permission) and reliable for the required topic.*
  • Uses in-text citation and full reference at end of posting when presenting another person’s thoughts as quotes or paraphrase of information.
Presentation of information was good, but was superficial in places and included all of the following elements:

  • Provides evidence of scholarly inquiry relevant to required TD topic(s).
  • Presents specific information from scholarly sources to develop a comprehensive presentation of facts.
  • Uses at least one outside scholarly reference that is relevant, less than 5 years old (use of older references requires instructor permission) and reliable for the required topic.*
  • Uses in-text citation and full reference at end of posting when presenting another person’s thoughts as quotes or paraphrase of information.
Presentation of information was minimally demonstrated in all of the following elements:

  • Provides evidence of scholarly inquiry relevant to required TD topic(s).
  • Presents specific information from scholarly sources to develop a comprehensive presentation of facts.
  • Uses at least one outside scholarly reference that is relevant, less than 5 years old (use of older references requires instructor permission) and reliable for the required topic.*
  • Uses in-text citation and full reference at end of posting when presenting another person’s thoughts as quotes or paraphrase of information.
 

Presentation of information is unsatisfactory in one of the following elements:

  • Provides evidence of scholarly inquiry relevant to required TD topic(s).
  • Presents specific information from scholarly sources to develop a comprehensive presentation of facts.
  • Uses at least one outside scholarly reference that is relevant, less than 5 years old (use of older references requires instructor permission) and reliable for the required topic.*
  • Uses in-text citation and full reference at end of posting when presenting another person’s thoughts as quotes or paraphrase of information.
 

Presentation of information is unsatisfactory in two of the following elements:

  • Provides evidence of scholarly inquiry relevant to required TD topic(s).
  • Presents specific information from scholarly sources to develop a comprehensive presentation of facts.
  • Uses at least one outside scholarly reference that is relevant, less than 5 years old (use of older references requires instructor permission) and reliable for the required topic.*
  • Uses in-text citation and full reference at end of posting when presenting another person’s thoughts as quotes or paraphrase of information.
Presentation of information is unsatisfactory in three or more of the following elements

  • Provides evidence of scholarly inquiry relevant to required TD topic(s).
  • Presents specific information from scholarly sources to develop a comprehensive presentation of facts.
  • Uses at least one outside scholarly reference that is relevant, less than 5 years old (use of older references requires instructor permission) and reliable for the required topic.*
  • Uses in-text citation and full reference at end of posting when presenting another person’s thoughts as quotes or paraphrase of information
 16 Points  14 Points  13 Points 11 Points 9 Points  0 Points
Application of Course Knowledge

Demonstrate the ability to analyze and apply principles, knowledge and information learned in the outside readings and relate them to real-life professional situations

Presentation of information was exceptional and included all of the following elements:

  • Applies principles, knowledge and information from scholarly resources to the required topic.
  • Applies facts, principles or concepts learned from scholarly resources to a professional experience.
  • Application of information is comprehensive and specific to the required topic.
Presentation of information was good, but was superficial in places and included all of the following elements:

  • Applies principles, knowledge and information from scholarly resources to the required topic.
  • Applies facts, principles or concepts learned from scholarly resources to a professional experience.
  • Application of information is comprehensive and specific to the required topic.
Presentation of information was minimally demonstrated in the all of the following elements:

  • Applies principles, knowledge and information from scholarly resources to the required topic.
  • Applies facts, principles or concepts learned from scholarly resources to a professional experience.
  • Application of information is comprehensive and specific to the required topic.
Presentation of information is unsatisfactory in one of the following elements:

  • Applies principles, knowledge and information from scholarly resources to the required topic.
  • Applies facts, principles or concepts learned from and scholarly resources to a professional experience.
  • Application of information is comprehensive and specific to the required topic.
Presentation of information is unsatisfactory in two of the following elements:

  • Applies principles, knowledge and information from scholarly resources to the required topic.
  • Applies facts, principles or concepts learned from scholarly resources to a professional experience.
  • Application of information is comprehensive and specific to the required topic.
Presentation of information is unsatisfactory in three of the following elements

  • Applies principles, knowledge and information and scholarly resources to the required topic.
  • Applies facts, principles or concepts learned scholarly resources to a professional experience.
  • Application of information is comprehensive and specific to the required topic.
   10 Points 9 Points  6 Points  0 Points
Interactive Dialogue

Initial post should be a minimum of 300 words (references do not count toward word count)

The peer and instructor responses must be a minimum of 150 words each (references do not count toward word count)

Responses are substantive and relate to the topic.

Demonstrated all of the following:

  • Initial post must be a minimum of 300 words.
  • The peer and instructor responses must be a minimum of 150 words each.
  • Responses are substantive
  • Responses are related to the topic of discussion.
Demonstrated 3 of the following:

  • Initial post must be a minimum of 300 words.
  • The peer and instructor responses must be a minimum of 150 words each.
  • Responses are substantive
  • Responses are related to the topic of discussion.
Demonstrated 2 of the following:

  • Initial post must be a minimum of 300 words.
  • The peer and instructor responses must be a minimum of 150 words each.
  • Responses are substantive
  • Responses are related to the topic of discussion.
Demonstrated 1 or less of the following:

  • Initial post must be a minimum of 300 words.
  • The peer and instructor responses must be a minimum of 150 words each.
  • Responses are substantive
  • Responses are related to the topic of discussion.
  8 Points 7 Points  6 Points         5 Points          4 Points  0 Points
Grammar, Syntax, APA

Points deducted for improper grammar, syntax and APA style of writing.

The source of information is the APA Manual 6th Edition

Error is defined to be a unique APA error. Same type of error is only counted as one error.

The following was present:

  • 0-3 errors in APA format

AND

  • Responses have 0-3 grammatical, spelling or punctuation errors

AND

  • Writing style is generally clear, focused on topic,and facilitates communication.
The following was present:

  • 4-6 errors in APA format.

AND/OR

  • Responses have 4-5 grammatical, spelling or punctuation errors

AND/OR

  • Writing style is somewhat focused on topic.
The following was present:

  • 7-9 errors in APA format.

AND/OR

  • Responses have 6-7 grammatical, spelling or punctuation errors

AND/OR

  • Writing style is slightly focused on topic making discussion difficult to understand.
 

The following was present:

  • 10- 12 errors in APA format

AND/OR

  • Responses have 8-9 grammatical, spelling and punctuation errors

AND/OR

  • Writing style is not focused on topic, making discussion difficult to understand.
 

The following was present:

  • 13 – 15 errors in APA format

AND/OR

  • Responses have 8-10 grammatical, spelling or punctuation errors

AND/OR

  • Writing style is not focused on topic, making discussion difficult to understand.

AND/OR

  • The student continues to make repeated mistakes in any of the above areas after written correction by the instructor.
The following was present:

  • 16 to greater errors in APA format.

AND/OR

  • Responses have more than 10 grammatical, spelling or punctuation errors.

AND/OR

  • Writing style does not facilitate communication
  0 Points Deducted 5 Points Lost
Participation

Requirements

Demonstrated the following:

  • Initial, peer, and faculty postings were made on 3 separate days
Failed to demonstrate the following:

  • Initial, peer, and faculty postings were made on 3 separate days
  0 Points Lost 5 Points Lost
Due Date Requirements Demonstrated all of the following:

  • The initial posting to the graded threaded discussion topic is posted within the course no later than Wednesday, 11:59 pm MT.

A minimum of one peer and one instructor responses are to be posted within the course no later than Sunday, 11:59 pm MT.

Demonstrates one or less of the following.

  • The initial posting to the graded threaded discussion topic is posted within the course no later than Wednesday, 11:59 pm MT.

A minimum of one peer and one instructor responses are to be posted within the course no later than Sunday, 11:59 pm MT.

Also Check Out: NURS 6050 AGENDA COMPARISON GRID AND FACT SHEET  

As we begin this session, I would like to take this opportunity to clarify my expectations for this course:

Please note that GCU Online weeks run from Thursday (Day 1) through Wednesday (Day 7).

 

Course Room Etiquette:

  • It is my expectation that all learners will respect the thoughts and ideas presented in the discussions.
  • All postings should be presented in a respectful, professional manner. Remember – different points of view add richness and depth to the course!

 

Office Hours:

  • My office hours vary so feel free to shoot me an email at Kelly.[email protected] or my office phone is 602.639.6517 and I will get back to you within one business day or as soon as possible.
  • Phone appointments can be scheduled as well. Send me an email and the best time to call you, along with your phone number to make an appointment.
  • I welcome all inquiries and questions as we spend this term together. My preference is that everyone utilizes the Questions to Instructor forum. In the event your question is of a personal nature, please feel free to post in the Individual Questions for Instructor forum I will respond to all posts or emails within 24 or sooner.

 

Late Policy and Grading Policy

Discussion questions:

  • I do not mark off for late DQ’s.
  •  I would rather you take the time to read the materials and respond to the DQ’s in a scholarly way, demonstrating your understanding of the materials.
  • I will not accept any DQ submissions after day 7, 11:59 PM (AZ Time) of the week.
  • Individual written assignments – due by 11:59 PM AZ Time Zone on the due dates indicated for each class deliverable.

Assignments:

  • Assignments turned in after their specified due dates are subject to a late penalty of -10%, each day late, of the available credit. Please refer to the student academic handbook and GCU policy.
  • Any activity or assignment submitted after the due date will be subject to GCU’s late policy
  • Extenuating circumstances may justify exceptions, which are at my sole discretion. If an extenuating circumstance should arise, please contact me privately as soon as possible.
  • No assignments can be accepted for grading after midnight on the final day of class.
  • All assignments will be graded in accordance with the Assignment Grading Rubrics

Participation

  • Participation in each week’s Discussion Board forum accounts for a large percentage of your final grade in this course.
  • Please review the Course Syllabus for a comprehensive overview of course deliverables and the value associated with each.
  • It is my expectation that each of you will substantially contribute to the course discussion forums and respond to the posts of at least three other learners.
  • substantive post should be at least 200 words. Responses such as “great posts” or “I agree” do not meet the active engagement expectation.
  • Please feel free to draw on personal examples as you develop your responses to the Discussion Questions but you do need to demonstrate your understanding of the materials.
  • I do expect outside sources as well as class materials to formulate your post.
  • APA format is not necessary for DQ responses, but I do expect a proper citation for references.
  • Please use peer-related journals found through the GCU library and/or class materials to formulate your answers. Do not try to “Google” DQ’s as I am looking for class materials and examples from the weekly materials.
  • will not accept responses that are from Wikipedia, Business dictionary.com, or other popular business websites. You will not receive credit for generic web searches – this does not demonstrate graduate-level research.
  • Stay away from the use of personal pronouns when writing. As a graduate student, you are expected to write based on research and gathering of facts. Demonstrating your understanding of the materials is what you will be graded on. You will be marked down for lack of evidence to support your ideas.

Plagiarism

  • Plagiarism is the act of claiming credit for another’s work, accomplishments, or ideas without appropriate acknowledgment of the source of the information by including in-text citations and references.
  • This course requires the utilization of APA format for all course deliverables as noted in the course syllabus.
  • Whether this happens deliberately or inadvertently, whenever plagiarism has occurred, you have committed a Code of Conduct violation.
  • Please review your LopesWrite report prior to final submission.
  • Every act of plagiarism, no matter the severity, must be reported to the GCU administration (this includes your DQ’s, posts to your peers, and your papers).

Plagiarism includes:

  • Representing the ideas, expressions, or materials of another without due credit.
  • Paraphrasing or condensing ideas from another person’s work without proper citation and referencing.
  • Failing to document direct quotations without proper citation and referencing.
  • Depending upon the amount, severity, and frequency of the plagiarism that is committed, students may receive in-class penalties that range from coaching (for a minor omission), -20% grade penalties for resubmission, or zero credit for a specific assignment. University-level penalties may also occur, including suspension or even expulsion from the University.
  • If you are at all uncertain about what constitutes plagiarism, you should review the resources available in the Student Success Center. Also, please review the University’s policies about plagiarism which are covered in more detail in the GCU Catalog and the Student Handbook.
  • We will be utilizing the GCU APA Style Guide 7th edition located in the Student Success Center > The Writing Center for all course deliverables.

LopesWrite

  • All course assignments must be uploaded to the specific Module Assignment Drop Box, and also submitted to LopesWrite every week.
  • Please ensure that your assignment is uploaded to both locations under the Assignments DropBox. Detailed instructions for using LopesWrite are located in the Student Success Center.

Assignment Submissions

  • Please note that Microsoft Office is the software requirement at GCU.
  • I can open Word files or any file that is saved with a .rtf (Rich Text Format) extension. I am unable to open .wps files.
  • If you are using a “.wps” word processor, please save your files using the .rtf extension that is available from the drop-down box before uploading your files to the Assignment Drop Box.

Grade of Incomplete

  • The final grade of Incomplete is granted at the discretion of the instructor; however, students must meet certain specific criteria before this grade accommodation is even possible to consider.
  • The grade of Incomplete is reserved for times when students experience a serious extenuating circumstance or a crisis during the last week of class which prevents the completion of course requirements before the close of the grading period. Students also must pass the course at the time the request is made.
  • Please contact me personally if you are having difficulties in meeting course requirements or class deadlines during our time together. In addition, if you are experiencing personal challenges or difficulties, it is best to contact the Academic Counselor so that you can discuss the options that might be available to you, as well as each option’s academic and financial repercussions.

Grade Disputes

  • If you have any questions about a grade you have earned on an individual assignment or activity, please get in touch with me personally for further clarification.
  • While I have made every attempt to grade you fairly, on occasion a misunderstanding may occur, so please allow me the opportunity to learn your perspective if you believe this has occurred. Together, we should be able to resolve grading issues on individual assignments.

However, after we have discussed individual assignments’ point scores, if you still believe that the final grade you have earned at the end of the course is not commensurate with the quality of work you produced for this class, there is a formal Grade Grievance procedure which is outlined in the GCU Catalog and Student Handbook.

Policy evaluation is the best way to know whether an individual health policy is achieving its desired goals or not. Nurses play a crucial role in policy evaluation as they contribute to data collection to communicate a health policy’s impacts (Turale & Kunaviktikul, 2019). A healthcare policy currently undergoing evaluation is the Strengthening and Amplifying Vaccination Efforts to Locally Immunize All Veterans and Every Spouse Act or the SAVE LIVES Act. The SAVE LIVES Act was signed into law on 24th March 2021. The goal of the law was to authorize the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) to vaccinate all Veterans, their spouses, and caregivers against COVID-19 (Congress.gov., n.d.). Under the law, the number of people eligible for COVID-19 vaccines has increased from 9.5 million individuals to more than 33 million. The criteria used to measure the effectiveness of the SAVE LIVES Act is the number of Veterans, their spouses, and caregivers who receive COVID-19 vaccines. During the SAVE LIVES Act evaluation, it is also essential to consider the number of COVID-19 vaccine doses administered to veterans as either first or complete vaccinations. Additionally, the evaluation team should assess the VA’s capacity to expand COVID-19 immunization based on the number of doses supplied over a given period (U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, 2021). The VA needs to streamline its registration, enrollment, scheduling, documentation, and data transmission systems to support the implementation of the SAVE LIVES Act.

Several social determinants of health impact COVID-19 vaccination supported by the SAVE LIVES Act. Health literacy, healthcare access, community engagement, and social integration are some of the social determinants of health that are involved in implementing the SAVE LIVES Act (World Health Organization, 2022). For example, the literacy levels of veterans, their spouses, and caregivers will influence their decisions to receive COVID-19 vaccines.