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: https://www.usa.gov/elected-officials/ or  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 assignmen