Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Exam

What are the general goals of Healthy People 2020?

1. Reduce healthcare costs for all

2. Increase the quality and years of life while eliminating health disparities

3. Improve access to mental health services

4. Promote education on chronic diseases

The correct answer is: Increase the quality and years of life while eliminating health disparities

The correct response identifies a primary objective of Healthy People 2020, which is to increase both the quality of life and the number of healthy years individuals experience, while simultaneously working to eliminate health disparities among various populations. This initiative is aimed at improving the overall health of the nation by addressing significant health challenges and promoting health equity, meaning that all individuals have a fair and just opportunity to attain their highest level of health. Healthy People 2020 emphasizes the importance of quality of life as a measure of health, not just the absence of disease. The commitment to eliminating health disparities reflects an understanding that social determinants of health—such as socioeconomic status, education, and access to healthcare—can significantly impact health outcomes. Therefore, the initiative involves strategies to ensure that diverse populations can access the resources they need to achieve good health. Looking at the other options, while reducing healthcare costs, improving access to mental health services, and promoting education on chronic diseases are all important aspects of health policy, they do not encapsulate the comprehensive goals of Healthy People 2020 as effectively as the chosen response. These aspects may contribute to the overarching goals but are not the primary focus that Healthy People 2020 encompasses.