The Goals of Healthy People 2020

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Healthy People 2020 is a program developed by the government that was launched November 2010. It was designed to improve peoples’ health nationwide, over the course of the next ten years. The three main goals of Healthy People 2020 are: for Americans to lead healthier lives, eliminate healthcare disparities, and to provide preventative health services to everybody. To successfully live healthier lives, individuals should be aware of personal existing diseases/illnesses, and treat health issues appropriately by medication, frequent lab work, and follow up appointments with doctors.
It is important that individuals with existing illnesses prevent further damage manage their current health status. The Healthy People 2020 website is informative and if utilized properly, an individual can research a number of different topics on how to improve/manage their health. The accessibility of healthcare services is an issue nationwide. Healthy People 2020 strives to see nationwide equality regardless of race; age, gender, existing illnesses, and socioeconomic status.
Preventative services have a strong priority for people that would like to improve their health. Prevention is the best way to avoid illness and diseases, but as stated on the website, “the absence of disease does not automatically equate to good health” ("Disparities," 2010, para. 6). Healthy People 2020 has provided information for individuals to help find ways to gain the greatest level of health for all people. Some topics that can be found are links on nutrition, daily activity, community resources, management of existing conditions, safe housing, and health insurance.
As a working nurse on an acute behavioral health unit, substance abuse is often an issue with my patient...

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...d them to no longer be able to drive due to suspended license. In cases like this, fortunately St. Joseph Hospital outpatient program provides transportation to those in need. Some insurance companies will also provide transport to and from necessary treatment.
Healthy People 2020 has ambitious goals for individuals nationwide. The government strives for equality of health care for all people regardless of race, age, ethnicity, and socioeconomic status. With this website, individuals have the tools needed to be able to manage existing health conditions and position themselves to prevent illness and diseases. It is up to the individual to be proactive and utilize all that is readily available to them. Healthy People 2020 is a good place for people nationwide to begin the search on how to become healthier in all aspects of their lives, both physically and mentally.

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