Over $2 trillion is spent annually in the United States on managing chronic disease, and 95% is for direct medical care. Because 40% of deaths are preventable, the result of unhealthy behavior patterns, more than 5% of the money should be directed to chronic disease prevention. This article focuses on the imbalance of health care resources and the economic issues associated with chronic disease prevention. Because the health of the nation is viewed in the past and present health of our children, a lifespan approach is applied. Population health determinants and policy implications of nonmedical influences of health promotion and disease prevention are explored. Specific nurse practitioner implications are highlighted and opportunities for health promotion are reviewed.
This continuing education activity is designed to augment the knowledge, skills, and attitudes of nurses and nurse practitioners and thus increase the quality of their care.
In compliance with national ethical guidelines, the author, reviewers, and editors report no relationships with business or industry that would pose a conflict of interest. The authors do not present any off-label or non-FDA-approved recommendations for treatment. There is no implied endorsement by NPA, MNA, or ANCC of any commercial products mentioned in the article.
1Jane Kapustin, PhD, CRNP, BC-ADM, FAANP, is associate professor and assistant dean of the master's program at the University of Maryland School of Nursing in Baltimore.
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