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.

Modalities of nursing care and health care delivery

Introduction: In the United States, healthcare delivery has seen significant improvements over recent decades. The healthcare system has undergone significant changes to meet rising healthcare costs, increased demand and improved outcomes. This changing world has seen the role of nurses change. Nurses play an increasing role in healthcare policy, patient care and management.

Reform and restructuring changes: The following are some of the most significant reforms that have been made to the U.S. Healthcare delivery system:

1. Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act: The ACA was passed into law in 2010 and introduced several modifications that aim at increasing access to healthcare, improving quality and outcomes and controlling healthcare cost. The establishment of health insurance exchanges, expansion of Medicaid coverage and introduction of value-based payments models were some of these changes.
2. EHRs: Electronic health records are a key initiative to increase the quality and efficiency in healthcare delivery. Electronic health records (EHRs) allow for better coordination and real-time patient access, as well as the integration of clinical decision support instruments.
3. Accountable Care Organizations, or ACOs, are networks of health care providers and facilities working together to coordinate healthcare for a specified patient population. ACOs can be used to encourage collaboration, lower healthcare costs and improve the quality of healthcare outcomes.
4. Patients-centered medical homes: These are primary care providers that provide coordinated and comprehensive patient-centered care. PCMHs have the potential to improve patient outcomes and patient satisfaction as well as reduce healthcare expenses.

Nursing in a changing environment: Nurses’ role in healthcare has evolved to be more complex and diverse. The critical role of nurses in healthcare policy, patient care and management is crucial. Here are some of the many ways nurses contribute to the evolving healthcare environment:

1. Patients care: Nursing is at the heart of patient care. They provide direct care in many settings to patients. Nursing plays a vital role in the coordination of care and managing chronic conditions.
2. Management of Healthcare: Nursing is also involved in the management and design of healthcare delivery systems, management of resources and evaluation of outcomes.
3. Health policy: Nursing is increasingly being involved in the development and implementation of health policies. They advocate for healthcare policy that will improve quality, accessibility, affordability, as well as access. The implementation of healthcare policies includes the creation of protocols and guidelines.

In conclusion: Since the 1990s, the U.S. has experienced significant reform and restructuring. These initiatives have focused on addressing rising healthcare costs, increased demand for health services and improved healthcare quality. With nurses taking a crucial role in the management of healthcare and patient care as well as in policy formulation, it has been increasingly important for them to play an active role. Nursing will be a major part of shaping the future healthcare system as the delivery system evolves.