A public policy problem. Access to long-term health care

A system providing humanistic health care without catastrophic financial consequences for elderly citizens must be based on principles and practices ensuring equal access to long-term health care. The purpose of this article is to analyze issues of limited access to long-term care (LTC) and recommend policy directions for society, which nurses can use in their understanding of and advocacy for their elderly patients. Issues pertaining to LTC screening methods, financing, and Medicaid reimbursement are analyzed. Recommendations include the development of a comprehensive, integrated LTC system through incremental reforms. Nurses' advocacy for LTC system reform to enhance access and quality of care for older adults is discussed.