Assignment Content

1. 
   
   All health care organizations must be aware of cost controls, regardless of nonprofit or for-profit status. Managing costs at all levels of the organization affects the bottom line, which has a direct effect on all aspects of the organization. This assignment is designed to help you analyze why organizational policies are put in place.
   Find a policy at a health care organization related to cost controls.
   Summarize the details of the policy:

   • When was the policy put in place?
   • Was it adopted system-wide, in one department, or multiple departments?
   • What does the policy address?
   • What are potential ramifications of not following the policy at the organizational level? Unit level? Individual level?

   Explain how the policy impacts fiscal aspects of the organization:

   • How does the policy act as a cost control?

   Describe how the policy impacts the quality of patient care:

   • Does the policy improve efficiency?
   • Are the goals to improve care and reduce cost?

   Explore the unintended consequences:

   • What secondary affects does the policy have on the organization? Unit? Staff? Patient?
   • Does the policy need revision?

   Suggest alternatives to the policy:

   • In your opinion, is the policy the best way to address the issue? Support your position by explaining why or why not.

   Cite at least three peer-reviewed sources published within the last five years in an APA-formatted reference page.
   Format your assignment as one of the following:

   • 18- to 20-slide presentation
   • 3- to 4-minute podcast
   • 15- to 20-minute oral presentation
   • 875-word paper