What arguments would you use to make the case for the policy?

Using a health policy model to develop a change in policy to improve

Introduction

Public health policies are vital in improving the overall health and wellness of a community. One of the health policies that can be implemented is the taxation of sugared beverages. The Longest’s policy cycle model can be used to guide the development of a change in policy aimed at improving the public’s health. In this assignment, I will use the Longest’s policy cycle model to answer the following questions:

• What arguments would you use to make the case for the policy?
• What argument(s) would your opponents make?
• How would you go about getting buy-in for your proposed policy?
• What stakeholder groups need to be involved in promoting your policy?

Arguments for Taxing Sugared Beverages

There is a significant correlation between the consumption of sugared beverages and the increased prevalence of obesity, diabetes, and other chronic illnesses (Brownell, Farley, Willett, Popkin, & Chaloupka, 2009). By taxing sugared beverages, the government can raise revenue, which can be channeled towards financing public health programs. Additionally, taxation can discourage the consumption of sugared beverages, which, in turn, can reduce the incidence of obesity, diabetes, and other chronic illnesses.

Arguments Against Taxing Sugared Beverages

Opponents of the policy may argue that the taxation of sugared beverages is an infringement of individual choice and freedom. They may also argue that the policy is regressive since it disproportionately affects low-income households. Additionally, opponents may argue that taxation may not significantly reduce the consumption of sugared beverages, and as such, may not lead to a reduction in the incidence of obesity, diabetes, and other chronic illnesses.

Getting Buy-in for the Proposed Policy

To get buy-in for the proposed policy, it is essential to involve stakeholders in the policy development process. These stakeholders include public health experts, healthcare providers, lawmakers, beverage industry representatives, and consumers. Through consultations and public hearings, stakeholders can express their concerns and provide feedback on the policy. Additionally, it is essential to create public awareness campaigns that highlight the negative effects of sugared beverages on health and wellness. These campaigns can be executed through social media, television and radio broadcasts, and public demonstrations.

Stakeholder Groups Involved in Promoting the Policy

Stakeholder groups that need to be involved in promoting the policy include public health agencies, healthcare providers, and community-based organizations. Public health agencies can conduct research studies and publish reports that highlight the negative effects of sugared beverages on health and wellness. Healthcare providers can educate their patients about the importance of a healthy diet and lifestyle, including the need to reduce the consumption of sugared beverages. Community-based organizations can mobilize community members to advocate for the policy through public demonstrations, lobbying, and public awareness campaigns.

Conclusion

The Longest’s policy cycle model can be used to guide the development of a change in policy aimed at improving the public’s health. Taxation of sugared beverages is a health policy that can be implemented to reduce the incidence of obesity, diabetes, and other chronic illnesses. However, to successfully implement the policy, it is essential to involve stakeholders in the policy development process, create public awareness campaigns, and promote community mobilization.