NR 586 Week 3 Discussion

a. Provide an overview of the health outcomes and factors in your county. Which health factors are strengths in your county? Which are areas for improvement?

Health outcomes in Monmouth County reflect a balance between notable public health achievements and ongoing challenges. The county demonstrates commendable performance in several areas, including low rates of teenage pregnancies, reduced physical inactivity, and a relatively low percentage of children living in poverty. Education serves as a major determinant of health in this area, supported by high high-school graduation rates and a substantial portion of the population pursuing higher education. Furthermore, the availability of healthcare services—such as access to primary care providers and dental professionals—supports preventive and acute care for the population.

Despite these positive attributes, Monmouth County still faces significant health concerns. Adult smoking rates remain a public health issue, contributing to risks for chronic conditions like COPD, cardiovascular disease, and cancer. In addition, income inequality continues to affect access to healthcare, housing stability, and opportunities for overall well-being. Addressing these two concerns—smoking prevalence and income disparities—requires targeted health interventions and equitable policy measures to improve population health outcomes across communities.

b. Consider the communities within your county. What influencing factors might be at the root of health factors needing improvement?

Several interrelated determinants contribute to Monmouth County’s areas of health concern. Physical determinants, such as limited access to affordable housing and nutritious foods, are foundational influences on overall health outcomes. In areas where housing affordability is low, residents often experience chronic stress that increases the likelihood of unhealthy behaviors.

Social factors also shape community health. Elements such as peer influence, cultural expectations, and limited recreational resources can foster patterns like smoking and sedentary lifestyles. Furthermore, behavioral determinants, including coping responses to family disruptions or financial hardships, can lead to choices that compromise both physical and mental health.

Psychosocial stressors, including job instability or minor but persistent health issues, also contribute to maladaptive behaviors. A comprehensive strategy that integrates healthcare services, social programs, and community partnerships is essential to address these root causes and promote sustainable improvements in health outcomes (World Health Organization, 2017).

c. How does your home county or county of practice compare to the counties with the highest and lowest health outcomes rankings?

When compared to Essex County and Middlesex County, Monmouth County demonstrates stronger health outcomes in education and childhood poverty reduction. However, disparities remain in behavioral health indicators like smoking and physical inactivity.

Table 1

Comparison of Health Indicators Across Counties

As seen in the table, Monmouth County outperforms Essex and Middlesex in education and poverty reduction metrics. Essex County experiences the most significant health disparities, including higher physical inactivity and child poverty rates. Middlesex County demonstrates average outcomes, with slightly lower smoking rates than Monmouth but higher inactivity levels.

This comparative analysis reinforces Monmouth County’s relative strengths while emphasizing the continued need for community-focused interventions aimed at reducing adult smoking and socioeconomic disparities.

d. How will the information you found impact your role as an advanced practice nurse?

The assessment of Monmouth County’s health outcomes provides valuable insight into the roles and responsibilities of advanced practice nurses (APNs) in population health management.

Targeted Assessments and Screenings

APNs can integrate findings on prevalent issues, such as smoking and physical inactivity, into their assessment practices. Identifying individuals at higher risk allows for early interventions and preventive strategies to minimize chronic disease development.

Health Promotion and Education

As educators and community advocates, APNs play a pivotal role in delivering health education. By promoting awareness of tobacco cessation, physical activity, and stress management, APNs can drive behavior change through community programs tailored to local health needs.

Advocacy for Equity

Beyond direct care, APNs must advocate for health equity by supporting initiatives that reduce income inequality, improve housing stability, and enhance access to care. Such advocacy ensures equitable health outcomes for vulnerable groups within the county.

Holistic and Patient-Centered Care

By recognizing the intersection of social, behavioral, and environmental determinants, APNs can deliver comprehensive care plans that promote long-term health and resilience. This holistic approach ensures not only symptom management but also sustained improvements in community wellness.

Through this multifaceted role, advanced practice nurses can significantly influence both individual and population-level health outcomes, fostering healthier, more equitable communities.

References

World Health Organization. (2017, February 3). Determinants of health. https://www.who.int/news-room/questions-and-answers/item/determinants-of-health

NR 586 Week 3 Discussion