Allegory of the Orchard
The Allegory of the Orchard presents barriers and challenges of underserved, vulnerable, or marginalized populations and communities. These barriers and challenges highlight the importance of understanding the impact of political determinants of health on such groups. This allegory encourages an identification, understanding, analysis, and response to these factors as members of the healthcare community.
For this Discussion, consider the role of the political determinants of health on underserved, vulnerable, or marginalized populations and communities. How might advocates address the health disparities to promote equity and access to high quality healthcare?
To Prepare:
- View and read the Learning Resources regarding The Allegory of the Orchard.
- Consider the role of political determinants of health on disparities in health for some groups.
- Consider if advocates should be more concerned with policies that promote equality or equity.
- Explore your role, as a nurse, in addressing these determinants in our policy advocacy efforts.
By Day 3 of Week 1
Post a response detailing the following:
Use The Allegory of the Orchard to discuss how the political determinants of health negatively impact the health outcomes of a group of patients for whom you care. Why are you, as a nurse, the right person to become politically involved in addressing these determinants?
By Day 6 of Week 1
Read a selection of your colleagues’ posts. Respond to at least two of your colleagues on two different days by supporting or expanding on the ideas identified by your colleague or sharing additional perspectives on the issue described by your colleague.
SOLUTION
Discussion: Allegory of the Orchard
Health outcomes are influenced by several factors, one of them being the political factors or determinants of health. These are systematic processes of structuring power administration, resource distribution, and relationships that influence health equity or exacerbate health inequities (Dawes, 2020). In the Allegory of the Orchard, the orchard represents a complex healthcare ecosystem where systemic barriers prevent certain groups from accessing the resources and opportunities needed for optimal health. This metaphor is particularly relevant when considering the health outcomes of adults aged between 26 and 49 struggling with addiction and psychiatric health issues, particularly those from ethnic and minority groups. Current statistics indicate that at least 40% of adults aged between 26 and 49 have a substance use or mental health disorder (Hodgman-Korth, 2024). The figure indicates that this group is vulnerable to psychiatric issues, demanding more focus on the political determinants that influence their health outcomes……………..Click the purchase icon above to access the full solution at $10