Access to Quality Healthcare Position Statement-Access to Quality Healthcare Position Statement

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Access to quality healthcare remains a global issue, with emergency departments (EDs) experiencing an increase in nonemergent visits due to gaps in primary care and healthcare costs. In the United States, ED visits exceed 139 million annually, and there has been a notable increase in visits for the 45 to 65-year-old age group. Disparities in access to healthcare and costs continue to be debated, despite efforts such as the Affordable Care Act (ACA) to improve healthcare access. Various factors contribute to barriers in access to care, including limited options for substance abuse treatment and the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic.<br /><br />The Emergency Nurses Association (ENA) takes the position that all individuals have the right to equitable access to affordable, comprehensive, quality healthcare. They advocate for strategies to support the healthcare provider workforce, including targeted funding for education and loan repayments. The ENA also calls for allowing Advanced Practice Registered Nurses (APRNs) to practice to the full extent of their education and removing barriers to reimbursement for their services. Additionally, the ENA emphasizes the need to expand access to healthcare through emerging technologies like telemedicine and for emergency nurses to participate in educating the public about preventive and primary care resources.<br /><br />Access to affordable healthcare is influenced by several factors, including health equity, the presence of a usual source of care, and the ability to pay for healthcare. Despite efforts to expand access to healthcare, issues such as high premiums, out-of-pocket expenses, and healthcare workforce shortages persist. Telehealth has shown promise in increasing access to care, particularly for underserved populations and in rural areas. The COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted the importance of telehealth and virtual visits in expanding healthcare access. <br /><br />In conclusion, ensuring access to affordable, quality healthcare is a complex task that requires addressing various barriers. The ENA emphasizes the importance of addressing disparities in access and improving healthcare policies to eliminate barriers and promote equitable access for all individuals.

Meta Tag

quality healthcare ED

quality healthcare disparities

quality healthcare addiction

quality healthcare affordable

quality healthcare social determinants

quality healthcare public health

quality healthcare APRN

Keywords

access to healthcare

emergency departments

nonemergent visits

primary care

healthcare costs

ED visits

disparities in access to healthcare

Affordable Care Act

substance abuse treatment

COVID-19 pandemic