Question

In this journal, you will analyze the healthcare professional's role in advocacy, specifically as it relates to vulnerable populations. How does the policy stakeholder you interviewed advocate for the health of vulnerable populations? Reflect on your current or future role in a health profession and how you might support the advocacy of a vulnerable population.

Answer 1

Vulnerable population is defined as any inequities in health and healthcare, social status and risk for diseases or illness. People who are in poverty, immigrants, people who diagnosed with HIV/AIDS, high risk pregnant mothers and children and elderly people are some of the known vulnerable populations or otherwise known as sensitive to risk factors. On the other hand, advocacy is defined as one that pleads, defends or supports a cause or interest of another.

Disparity among people in high risk population is very common. Stakeholders should identify and develop an awareness of issues impacting vulnerable populations and to advocate for policy changes that will influence the health of individuals.

Can be supported by

a) Increasing access to healthcare

b) Decrease barriers and by improving their knowledge

c) Eliminate or modify environmental risk factors

d) increase client's ability to make informed decisions on health

e) Develop equitable healthcare policies that address the adverse needs of the people.