Examine changes introduced to reform or restructure the U.S. health care delivery system. In a 1,000-1,250 word paper, discuss action taken for reform and restructuring and the role of the nurse within this changing environment.

Health care delivery models and nursing practice

Introduction: The U.S. healthcare delivery system has undergone significant changes over the past few decades. Reform and restructuring of the healthcare system have been introduced to address the challenges of rising healthcare costs, increasing demand for healthcare services, and the need to improve healthcare quality and outcomes. The role of the nurse within this changing environment has also evolved, with nurses playing an increasingly important role in patient care, healthcare management, and health policy.

Changes introduced for reform and restructuring: Some of the major changes introduced for reform and restructuring of the U.S. healthcare delivery system include the following:

1. Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (ACA): The ACA, signed into law in 2010, introduced several changes aimed at expanding access to healthcare services, improving healthcare quality and outcomes, and controlling healthcare costs. These changes included the establishment of health insurance exchanges, the expansion of Medicaid coverage, and the introduction of value-based payment models.
2. Electronic health records (EHRs): The adoption of EHRs has been a major initiative aimed at improving the quality and efficiency of healthcare delivery. EHRs allow for improved coordination of care, real-time access to patient information, and the integration of clinical decision support tools.
3. Accountable Care Organizations (ACOs): ACOs are networks of healthcare providers and facilities that work together to coordinate care for a defined patient population. ACOs are designed to promote collaboration, reduce healthcare costs, and improve healthcare quality and outcomes.
4. Patient-centered medical homes (PCMHs): PCMHs are primary care practices that are designed to provide comprehensive, coordinated, and patient-centered care. PCMHs aim to improve patient outcomes, increase patient satisfaction, and reduce healthcare costs.

Role of the nurse in the changing environment: The role of the nurse in the changing healthcare environment has become increasingly complex and multifaceted. Nurses play a critical role in patient care, healthcare management, and health policy. Some of the ways in which nurses are contributing to the changing healthcare environment include the following:

1. Patient care: Nurses are at the forefront of patient care, providing direct care to patients in a variety of settings. Nurses play a critical role in coordinating care, managing chronic conditions, and promoting health and wellness.
2. Healthcare management: Nurses are also involved in healthcare management, including the design and implementation of healthcare delivery models, the management of healthcare resources, and the evaluation of healthcare outcomes.
3. Health policy: Nurses are increasingly involved in health policy, advocating for policies that improve healthcare quality, access, and affordability. Nurses are also involved in the implementation of healthcare policies, including the development of guidelines and protocols.

Conclusion: The U.S. healthcare delivery system has undergone significant changes over the past few decades, with reform and restructuring initiatives aimed at addressing the challenges of rising healthcare costs, increasing demand for healthcare services, and the need to improve healthcare quality and outcomes. The role of the nurse in this changing environment has become increasingly important, with nurses playing a critical role in patient care, healthcare management, and health policy. As the healthcare delivery system continues to evolve, nurses will play a key role in shaping the future of healthcare.