Nurs fpx 6218 Assessment 2 : Assessing Community Health Care Needs
Learner’s Full Name
Capella University of health and sciences
FPX6218: Leading the Future of Health Care
Professor’s Name
Month,Year
This comprehensive report for NURS FPX 6218 Assessment 2 presents a detailed windshield survey and environmental scan of Jordan, Minnesota. The assessment focuses on key community characteristics that influence health, including housing, access to healthcare, social determinants, and the physical environment. The objective is to provide insights that can guide community leaders, healthcare organizations, and policymakers in creating healthier living conditions for all residents.
Executive Summary
General Community Overview
The windshield survey of Jordan, Minnesota, conducted for NURS FPX 6218 Assessment 2, reveals a community transitioning from its traditional roots to a more modern society. The town features a mix of new, attractive homes alongside older, less-maintained properties, particularly in the vicinity of the business district. Public spaces such as Lagoon Park offer recreational and social opportunities. Educational institutions, senior living facilities, and local businesses play crucial roles in fostering education, health, and economic development. However, some areas exhibit signs of neglect, including overgrown vegetation and vacant buildings, highlighting the need for infrastructure improvements.
Public Health Needs
Jordan faces several public health challenges. Aging housing stock requires renovations to improve safety and aesthetics (National Institute on Aging, 2023). Expanding recreational and community facilities could promote physical activity and social inclusion. Although existing healthcare services, such as those provided by St. Francis Health Services, are valuable, integrating mental health services is crucial to meeting the diverse needs of the community (Colizzi et al., 2020). Additionally, enhanced public transportation options, especially for residents in rural and peripheral areas, would improve access to healthcare and community resources.
Physical Environment
Jordan’s physical environment includes residential areas, community spaces, and natural landscapes. Recreational facilities such as Mill Pond Park, which spans 16 acres, add value to the community. Housing conditions vary widely, with well-maintained neighborhoods near Timber Ridge Court and deteriorating properties in the downtown area. The business sector, comprising shops and restaurants, is stable; however, some retail spaces remain underutilized and neglected, which negatively impacts the town’s overall appeal.
Survey Limitations and Safety Concerns
While the windshield survey provides valuable insights, it has limitations. This external observation method captures general conditions but lacks detailed information about internal housing issues and the perspectives of residents. Seasonal factors, temporary closures, or special events may skew the assessment. Safety concerns also exist, especially when surveying areas with dilapidated structures. To address these challenges, incorporating secondary data and collaborating with local authorities can enhance the survey’s accuracy and safety (Wickham, 2019).
Environmental Factors Affecting Health
Key Health Issues
Jordan faces various health challenges influenced by technological, social, political, and economic factors. Risks include respiratory illnesses and physical injuries from aging homes (Wimalasena et al., 2021). Limited technological infrastructure hampers healthcare delivery, including telehealth services. Social inequalities hinder low-income families’ access to adequate healthcare and nutritious diets (Penne & Goedemé, 2020). Insufficient funding restricts public health services, particularly for mental health and chronic conditions. Additionally, high healthcare costs, environmental pollution, and poor public transport limit access to essential services.
Opportunities and Threats
Opportunities for improving public health include developing clinics and digital health platforms to bridge the gap between providers and patients, especially in rural areas (Morris et al., 2021). Increasing funding for recreational facilities could enhance physical and mental health. Encouraging local businesses to participate in health promotion initiatives could also strengthen community well-being.
However, threats remain, such as high healthcare and prescription costs (Rajkumar, 2020). Environmental risks associated with inadequate waste disposal and pollution pose threats to respiratory and cardiovascular health. Limited government resources make it challenging to upgrade infrastructure or invest in preventive care. Poor transportation networks further restrict access to healthcare and essential services.
Social Determinants of Health
Social Factors Influencing Health
Socioeconomic factors, including income, education, housing, and access to healthcare, have a significant impact on health outcomes. Wealthier residents tend to enjoy better housing and healthcare, whereas low-income individuals often face challenges such as limited access to fresh food and preventive care (Wang & Geng, 2019). Education levels also impact health, as higher literacy promotes healthier lifestyles and better health management (Raghupathi & Raghupathi, 2020). Poor housing conditions increase risks of lead poisoning and respiratory diseases.
Social connections, including family and community relationships, play a vital role in mental and emotional well-being. Community-based initiatives, health education, and collaboration with policymakers can drive positive changes.
Evidence Supporting Claims
Studies confirm that social factors have a profound impact on community health. Investments in housing, education, and community resources lead to improved health outcomes (Dwivedi, 2022; Holden et al., 2023). Community-based interventions targeting social integration, such as anti-smoking and nutrition campaigns, have successfully enhanced mental health and reduced health disparities (Acoba, 2024; Abdul Raheem, 2023).
Underlying Assumptions and Uncertainties
The assessment assumes that improving social determinants, such as education, income, and housing, will have a positive impact on health in Jordan. Collaborative efforts between residents, healthcare providers, and policymakers are expected to yield sustainable changes (Vamos et al., 2020). However, economic fluctuations, political shifts, and evolving community needs introduce uncertainties regarding the long-term effectiveness of interventions.
Summary
The windshield survey and environmental scan conducted for NURS FPX 6218 Assessment 2 categorize key findings into housing, community amenities, healthcare services, and socio-environmental concerns. These categories help identify actionable strategies and resource needs. Key issues include aging housing, limited access to healthcare, inadequate transportation, and social inequalities. Enhancing recreational spaces, promoting affordable housing, expanding healthcare services, and leveraging telehealth can improve community health. Collaborative efforts among community members, healthcare professionals, and policymakers are essential.
Lessons Learned
Integrating physical and social environmental improvements can yield long-term health benefits. Community involvement in assessing needs and designing action plans ensures the development of effective solutions. Data-driven approaches, interdisciplinary teamwork, and partnerships with local organizations are crucial for addressing complex health challenges (Coali et al., 2024).
Conclusion
The findings from this windshield survey and environmental analysis emphasize the need for improvements in housing, healthcare access, and community resources to enhance public health in Jordan, Minnesota. By leveraging social determinants, community engagement, and collaborative leadership, Jordan can foster a healthier and more resilient community. Successful implementation of these initiatives requires joint efforts from government entities, healthcare providers, and community stakeholders.
