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1. Introduction Disorder‑specific severity measures are standardized tools used to assess the intensity of symptoms for particular mental health conditions. They provide quantitative data that supports diagnosis, treatment planning, monitoring progress, and evaluating outcomes. For adults, one of the most widely used tools for depression is the Patient Health Questionnaire‑9 (PHQ‑9). The PHQ‑9 is both…
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1. Introduction Healthcare systems worldwide strive to deliver care that is safe, effective, patient‑centered, timely, efficient, and equitable. The continuum of care concept emphasizes seamless transitions across preventive, acute, rehabilitative, and long‑term services. When analyzed through the Value‑Based Care (VBC) model and the Institute of Medicine (IOM) Six Aims, the continuum of care becomes a…
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1. Introduction In 2001, the Institute of Medicine (IOM) (now the National Academy of Medicine) published the landmark report Crossing the Quality Chasm, identifying six key aims for improving healthcare quality. These aims serve as a framework for healthcare systems worldwide, guiding reforms toward safe, effective, patient‑centered, timely, efficient, and equitable care. They remain foundational…
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1. Introduction Value‑Based Care (VBC) is a healthcare delivery model where providers are paid based on patient health outcomes rather than the volume of services delivered. It contrasts with fee‑for‑service (FFS), which incentivizes quantity of care. VBC emphasizes quality, equity, cost‑effectiveness, and patient satisfaction. 2. Defining Value‑Based Care Core Principle: Payment is tied to outcomes,…
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1. Introduction Continuum of Care (CoC) refers to the integrated system of health services that ensures patients receive consistent, coordinated, and comprehensive care across different stages of health and illness. It spans preventive, primary, acute, rehabilitative, and long‑term care, aiming to avoid fragmentation and improve patient outcomes. Valuation of CoC involves assessing its clinical, financial,…
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1. Introduction Nursing informatics has become a critical competency in modern healthcare systems. With the increasing reliance on information technology (IT) for patient care, documentation, and decision-making, nurses must possess informatics skills to ensure safe, efficient, and evidence-based practice. Farzandipour et al. (2021) conducted a study to design a national model for assessing nursing informatics…
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1. Introduction to Critical Race Theory (CRT) Critical Race Theory (CRT) emerged in the 1970s and 1980s as a movement among legal scholars who challenged the slow pace of racial reform in the United States. In education, CRT was adapted to examine how race and racism shape educational structures, policies, and practices. The 2013 Handbook…
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1. Introduction to Social Justice Theory John Rawls’ A Theory of Justice (1971) is a foundational text in modern political philosophy. It presents a compelling alternative to utilitarianism and introduces the concept of justice as fairness, aiming to reconcile liberty and equality in a democratic society. 2. Historical and Philosophical Context Rawls builds on Kantian…
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End-of-Life Care and Social Work Practice Naturally, death and dying is also a biological change that occurs in later adulthood. As older adults age, they may experience diseases that impact their already vulnerable organ and immune systems such as cancer, Alzheimer’s, and cardiovascular issues. They may die painlessly at home surrounded by the support of…
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For this Week’s Policy Quick Guide, you add to your practical resource by focusing on key policies related to healthcare. You also focus on ways to assist clients in understanding complicated healthcare policy. TO PREPARE Refer to the Policy Research Starter in the Learning Resources. These resources provide a start for finding information on the…