Walden University
Nurs-6050N Policy and Advocacy for Improving Population Health Part 1: Global Health Comparison Grid Template
Use this document to complete the Module 6 Assessment Global Healthcare Comparison Matrix and Narrative Statement
Global Healthcare IssueVaccines and Immunizations
Description The global perspective of vaccines differs from country to country. While the United States have access to plentiful
Vaccines and several policies in place requiring certain vaccines, there are other countries that struggle with access to vaccines.The Global Vaccine Action Plan (GVAP) ― endorsed by
the 194 Member States of the
World Health Assembly in May 2012 ― is a framework to prevent millions of deaths by 2020 through more equitable access to existing
vaccines for people in all communities (WHO, n.d.).
Country United States Mexico
Describe the policy in each country related to the identified healthcare issueThere are no US federal vaccination laws. Each state has
its own requirements for children entering public schools.There are no vaccines required for the entry into Mexico but there are requirements for children enrolling in school.
What are the strengths of
this policy?All 50 states allow medical exemptions, 45 states allow religious exemptions, and 15
states allow philosophical (or
personal belief) exemptions (ProCon.org, n.d.).In Mexico religious and medical exemptions are allowed but personal beliefs cannot be exempted from vaccinations to enter school.
What are the weaknesses of this policy?Parents express concern by the number of vaccines given
by the age 2 and the immunity of their children.
Without proper education from caregivers it can then
result in parent's refusal of
vaccines for their children.Morbidity and mortality from
vaccine-preventable diseases occur primarily in poor countries.
Lack of funding and infrastructure is a challenge (Freedman & Nichols, 2012).
Explain how the social determinants of health may impact the specified global health issue. (Be specific and provide examples)Social determinants can affect routine childhood immunization efforts in low-, medium- and high-income populations (Freedman & Nichols, 2012). For example, to reduce childhood mortality
and morbidity the needs of the community must be metImmunization barriers can lower rates. Lack of educational opportunities for childhood vaccines can affect
herd immunity and reduction of new vaccines.