Not For Profit Health Organization: the Ronald McDonald House - Essay Example

"Not For Profit Health Organization: the Ronald McDonald House" is a wonderful example of a paper on social and family issues. The Ronald McDonald House was first developed in 1974 (History) in response to the need for local housing for the families of children being treated at Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia. These families sometimes traveled great distances and treatment could take many hours while the parents sat in waiting rooms, many unable to afford hotel accommodations. Because families with children who have serious illnesses are often financially stretched this was a need not only for many communities but in locations across the country and today there are over three hundred Ronald McDonald houses nationwide.

Though the Ronald McDonald House charities have no pending legislature the Ronald McDonald image and character has come under the appraising gaze of some in relation to the nation’s obesity problem. Is it possible that there may be some who see the character as one similar to Joe Cool who was used to market cigarette and tobacco products? Though it is not likely in my opinion there is the slightest possibility that this could affect Ronald McDonald in the future. The legislature has few options when it comes to controlling the Nations's obesity issues and addressing the American consumer’s consumption of fast food seems like something that may become a strategy in the future.

Because the Joint Commission provides accrediting and certification they actively monitor legislation for new rulings and policies where they may be able to provide services. They are the agency that sets many standards in health care and is responsible for making sure these standards are met once an organization, rule, or policy has received Joint Commission accreditation (State…). The Texas Department of State Health has Joint Commission licensing state that “Facilities seeking Comprehensive, Primary or Support stroke facility designation shall be surveyed through The Joint Commission's stroke certification program or other organization approved by the department to verify that the facility is meeting department-approved relevant stroke facility standards” (State…) This essentially means exactly what it says and is posted publicly for consumers to have access to. This regulation and policy are external to Ronald McDonald though it does involve a government agency and the Joint Commission.