What is the goal of Healthy People 2020?

• A. To eliminate health disparities related to race, ethnicity, and socioeconomic status.
• B. To maximize hospital profits.
• C. To publish national health guidelines.
• D. To standardize treatment protocols.

Answer: (A)

The main idea being tested is health equity and reducing disparities in health outcomes. Healthy People 2020 is built to close gaps in health based on race, ethnicity, and socioeconomic status by promoting access to quality care, addressing social determinants of health, and targeting improvements for groups most affected by poor health.

That’s why the best answer focuses on eliminating disparities related to race, ethnicity, and socioeconomic status. The other options don’t capture the primary aim of Healthy People 2020: maximizing profits, publishing guidelines, or standardizing treatment protocols aren’t the overarching public health goal. Understanding this helps you see why advancing equity and reducing disparities guides national health objectives and nursing practice alike.