Choose a topic on which to develop a health policy. This topic may address a needed change in technology,health care literacy, staffing, billing, diagnosis, etc. 

Topic: Rural Health Disparities and the Solution

Health disparities refers to the differences in health outcomes among different populations. These are often due to socioeconomic and demographic factors. Many rural areas are faced with health problems due to their limited healthcare access, poor health literacy, high poverty rates, chronic diseases, and low education levels.

A health policy is a plan that promotes healthy behavior and improves access to health care in rural areas. You can incorporate the following elements into your policy:

1. Rural health facilities need more funding. These facilities can be made more accessible to healthcare, improve technology, attract and keep skilled professionals, and increase their funding.
2. Telehealth programs may be developed: Telehealth programs offer remote access to health services. They include remote consultations with a physician and patient monitoring. This program can bridge the access gap for rural patients who might not be able to access healthcare services.
3. Health literacy should be increased: Rural residents are often not well-versed in health matters. This can cause confusion, poor health outcomes, poor medication adherence, and low health care costs. Health education programs that promote healthy lifestyles and improve health literacy can be created to address this problem.
4. Promoting healthy habits: Rural communities are often faced with unique problems that may impact their health. These include limited access to fresh food and the inability to enjoy outdoor activities. Local farmers may be offered incentives to sell produce in rural areas. Funding for community gardens or outdoor recreational facilities will also be available. Education programs that encourage active eating and healthy living can also be included.
5. Transport infrastructure should be improved: Poor access to transport can make it difficult for rural residents to get healthcare. To improve rural residents’ access to healthcare, the policy could include transportation funding, including ride-sharing and mobile clinics.

To sum it, creating a policy for rural healthcare can increase access and health literacy as well promote health behaviors. Rural residents can be helped to reduce their health care costs by improving access to healthcare, creating telehealth programs and increasing literacy.