Health Policy Analysis: Framework and Tools for Success

This is the only resource to provide a step-by-step framework and expert guidance for preparing a policy analysis final paper or a capstone project for courses in health policy and health policy analysis. Building on a blend of theory and political considerations for creating a successful policy analysis, the text guides students through the process of building an analysis that encompasses policy background, issue statement, normative and stakeholder analysis, criteria for success, systematic review of policy options, recommendations, and a strategy for adoption. To illustrate each step of the process, the text traces the development of a policy on childhood obesity, the framework of which is directly applicable to a broad spectrum of policy analysis projects. The text explains why each component of the health policy analysis framework is important and includes concrete guidance for obtaining resources and requisite tools for completing each task. It emphasizes the need for both objective research and the ability to understand the perspectives of stakeholders as well as the potential strengths, weaknesses, and biases of various sources. The book underscores the importance of considering alternatives in making policy recommendation a reality. Additionally, it focuses on understanding political realities and policy process to successfully navigate the system. Breakout boxes feature state-of-the-art examples to demonstrate the frameworkís application. The book also includes chapter summaries to reinforce the material and questions to spur further thought. The authors are health professionals connected nationally to relevant groups (e.g., AUPHA, APHA, Robert Wood Johnson, and environmental health policy groups), and have extensive networks in practice and academia. Key Features: Builds on a blend of theory and political considerations to create a successful policy analysis Provides a step-by-step framework for constructing a health policy analysis with real world application Integrates a variety of disciplines into the policy analysis Traces the development of a policy on childhood obesity to illustrate each step of the process Offers viable solutions to questions and issues students struggle with while preparing their analysis

About the Author

John W. Seavey , MPH, PhD, is Professor Emeritus and past Everett B. Sackett Professor at the University of New Hampshire, Department of Health Management and Policy, College of Health and Human Services. Dr. Seavey's 30 years of teaching health policy and health policy analysis courses in undergraduate and MPH programs as well as the capstone course in MPH programs brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to this publication. He has been the recipient of the College of Health and Human Services Teaching Award (1986), UNH Outstanding Associate Professor Award (1991), UNH Bill Kidder Faculty Award (1999), College of Health and Human Services Distinguished Career Research Award (2003), UNH Faculty Social Justice Award (2005), and Distinguished UNH Professor (2005). Dr. Seavey has published two books, written numerous scholarly articles, book reviews, and policy reports. He is a former board member and Chair of the AUPHA.

Robert J. McGrath , II, PhD, is the current Everett B. Sackett Professor, Chair and Director of Graduate Programs in the Department of Health Management and Policy, University of New Hampshire. He is affiliated with AUPHA, APHA, New Hampshire Public Health Association, Academy Health, and is Founding Director for the New Hampshire Health Information Center (NHHIC). Dr. McGrath's areas of expertise and teaching credentials include U.S. Health Care Systems, Health Care Research Health Policy, Health Policy Analysis, Biostatistics, and Survey Research Methods. He has published book chapters, numerous professional journal articles, working papers and issue briefs.