Discussion Question:
An ongoing challenge for advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs) has been changing state legislation that allow APRNs to practice to the fullest extent to which they were academically prepared. For this discussion question, contact the Board of Nursing (BON) in your state or access your BON online. Examine laws that govern APRNs in your state. Consider the following: do APRNs in your state have prescriptive authority; is there legislation in place that allows them to practice autonomously; and finally, if a bill has been passed and adopted, which legislator introduced the bill and who were the strongest advocates for the bill? Then post an initial response that addresses the following:
Explain how the lack of autonomy for APRNs impact patients in rural populations? As a health care professional in an advocacy role, what resources could you utilize to guide you in changing policies that impact APRNS in your state? Include in your discussion the type of stakeholders and collaborative partners you would seek to guide or assist you on this cause.
Assignment:
Population Health Advocacy
Human trafficking, extreme poverty, preventable diseases, the opioid crisis and the lack of adequate low-income housing are a few current societal concerns worthy of social change. Nurses and healthcare leaders are in a good position to shape and influence health care policy.
Think of a cause you believe in strongly. Access the website of your elected officials either at the local, state, or federal level using the following link: use the website of your choice. Explore some of the issues and committees your legislators are involved in and select at least one that interest you or align with your beliefs. You may also contact your legislator’s office and speak to his or her legislative assistant by calling the U.S. Capitol switchboard operator at (202) 224-3121 for the Senate and (202) 225-3121 for the House. Legislator assistants are very knowledgeable about the legislator’s agenda and can provide a wealth of information.
This assignment will be at least 1500 words or more. This week reflect on advocacy, collaborative partnerships with other health care practitioners and stakeholders, and the policy making process and write a paper that addresses the following:
- Describe the policy issue, policy problem of interest or a particular bill that your legislator has introduced
- Elaborate on why the policy matters and what you can possibly do to strengthen the policy?
- Briefly define the role you would play as an advocate for the healthcare consumer and healthcare professionals.
- Explain how the policy impacts the public at large or a particular population.
- What stakeholders would you collaborate with to promote the cause?
Assignment Expectations
Length: 1500-2000 words in length
Structure: Include a title page and reference page in APA format. These do not count towards the minimal word amount for this assignment. Your essay must include an introduction and a conclusion.
References: Use the appropriate APA style in-text citations and references for all resources utilized to answer the questions. A minimum of two (2) scholarly sources are required for this assignment.
Expert Solution Preview
As a medical professor in charge of creating college assignments and evaluating student performance in a medical college, I understand the importance of preparing future healthcare professionals to be advocates for policy change. The discussion question and assignment provided focus on the role advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs) play in advocating for policy changes that impact their practice and patient care.
The lack of autonomy for APRNs can have significant effects on patients in rural populations. In areas where access to healthcare is already limited, restrictions on APRNs can further exacerbate the problem. The inability for APRNs to practice to the full extent of their education and training restricts the availability and accessibility of primary care services in rural areas. This can result in delay or lack of necessary care for patients in need, leading to poorer health outcomes and decreased quality of life.
To change policies that impact APRNs in their state, healthcare professionals in advocacy roles can utilize various resources. One important resource is professional nursing organizations, such as the American Nurses Association (ANA), which actively advocate for nursing practice and policy issues. These organizations provide guidance, resources, and support for advocacy efforts. They often have dedicated government affairs teams that work to shape healthcare policies at the state and federal levels.
Collaboration with other stakeholders is crucial in effecting policy change. This includes engaging with healthcare organizations, patient advocacy groups, other healthcare professionals, and legislators. Building alliances and establishing partnerships with these stakeholders can amplify the advocacy efforts and increase the likelihood of policy change. Nurses can also leverage their own relationships with patients and local communities to garner support and raise awareness about the issue.
In terms of the assignment, students are required to select a cause they believe in strongly and explore the policy issues related to that cause. They are encouraged to research and understand the specific policy problem or bill introduced by their legislator, as well as the reasons why the policy matters. Additionally, students are expected to define their role as advocates for healthcare consumers and professionals and explain how the policy impacts the public or a particular population. They should also identify stakeholders they would collaborate with to promote the cause.
In conclusion, as medical college students, it is important to recognize the impact that policy decisions have on healthcare practice and patient outcomes. Advocacy plays a vital role in influencing policy change and improving healthcare delivery. By understanding the laws and regulations related to their profession and utilizing resources, such as professional nursing organizations and collaborative partnerships, future healthcare professionals can effectively advocate for policies that enhance patient care and advance the nursing profession.
