The problem of drug overdose is a significant health care concern in Brooklyn, New York. Unfortunately, majority of people dying from drug overdose are the youth who could benefit from timely intervention. According to an article in the New York Times, “The Bronx’s Quiet, Brutal War with Opioids,” Del Real (2017) reveals the extent of the problem by stating how overdose victims die in public restrooms, parks, and under bridges. For nurses, it is critical to be part of efforts that deal with this problem by collaborating with policymakers in the city and state. Such initiatives are significant in saving young people from the dangers of drug abuse, including premature death.
The Streams and Windows Model of policy-making is the most appropriate approach to address cases of drug abuse and overdose in Brooklyn, New York. A convergence of three streams creates a policy window, and a new strategy might emerge from the alternative to address the policy issue (Birkland, 2015). The problem stream guides policymakers on a significant healthcare concern by defining the problem while a new policy approach emerges to implement a solution. The model is the most effective in addressing healthcare issues since it begins by getting adequate information about the problem, then analyzing alternative solutions before selecting an applicable option.
The effectiveness of the model emanates from the fact that the three streams, including problem, political, and policy, work together to solve the complicated healthcare challenge successfully. Notably, the model brings together all stakeholders from the healthcare sector, policymakers, and other members of the affected community to find an appropriate remedy. Hence, the collaborative efforts allow the partners to pull resources and information to implement the most suitable solution.
References
Birkland, T. A. (2015). An introduction to the policy process: Theories, concepts, and models of public policy making. New York: Routledge.
Del Real, J.A. (2017). The bronx’s quiet, brutal war with opioids, The New York Times.