Before starting this assignment, read Demarco and Tufts (2013) The mechanics of writing a policy brief.See the Policy Brief Guidelines instructions below: Imagine that youre an elected official serving on a committee that sets the standards by which seniors receive medical care. You know that this is a complex issue, and youd like to learn more about existing policies, the effects of quality care on the aging adult and on public health, the economic consequences of different possible approaches, and moreyou want to make an informed decision. But you dont have time to research all these issues! You need a policy brief. A policy brief presents a concise summary of information that can help readers understand, and likely make decisions about, government policies. Policy briefs may give objective summaries of relevant research, suggest possible policy options, or go even further and argue for specific courses of action. To get an idea of how your final policy brief might look, review the following two policy brief examples: Troubles of the Veterans Choice Act of 2014 (PDF) Increasing Funding for the Older American Act of 1965 (PDF) Context and Importance of the Problem The purpose of this section of the brief is to convince the target audience that a current and urgent problem exists that requires them to take action. The context and importance of the problem is both the introductory and first building block of the brief. As such, it usually includes the following: A clear statement of the problem or issue in focus. A short overview of the root causes of the problem. A clear statement of the policy implications of the problem that clearly establishes the current importance and policy relevance of the issue. Your context and importance section should comprise about 25 to 30% of the brief. Analysis of Current Policy Options The goal of this section is to detail the areas that are lacking in the current approach or options being implemented and to describe both the need for change and the focus of where change needs to occur. It should include: A short overview of the policy option or options being considered or in practice. An argument describing why and how the current or proposed approach is failing. Note: It is important for the sake of credibility to recognize all opinions in the debate of the issue. Your analysis should comprise about 25 to 30% of the brief. Policy Recommendations The goal of this section is to provide a detailed and convincing proposal of how the failings of the current policy approach need to change. It should include: A breakdown of the specific practical steps or measures that need to be implemented. A closing paragraph re-emphasizing the importance of action. Your policy recommendations should comprise about 25 to 30% of the brief.
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