1-Describe three political actions nurses could take to strengthen their role in policymaking as it relates to advocacy for improving LGBTQ health. 2- Correlate your discussion to the AACN MSN Essentials, identify one that most pertains to this topic and elaborate on your selection. Attached below is additional information regarding providing adequate care for the LGBTQ community as outlined by Joint Commission and the CDC: Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender Health:
Introduction
The role of nurses in policymaking and advocacy for improving LGBTQ health is crucial in ensuring equitable and inclusive healthcare for this population. By actively participating in political actions, nurses can contribute to shaping policies and promoting changes that address the unique healthcare needs of the LGBTQ community. This paper will describe three political actions that nurses can take to strengthen their role in policymaking related to advocacy for improving LGBTQ health. Furthermore, the discussion will correlate these actions with the American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN) MSN Essentials, focusing on one essential that pertains to this topic.
Political Actions in Strengthening the Role of Nurses in Policymaking for LGBTQ Health Advocacy
1. Engaging in Legislative Advocacy
Nurses can actively engage in legislative advocacy by advocating for LGBTQ-inclusive policies at local, state, and national levels. This can be achieved through participation in lobbying efforts, contacting elected representatives, and providing expert testimony. Nurses can join professional nursing organizations that have LGBTQ health advocacy as part of their legislative agenda or form alliances with LGBTQ organizations to amplify their voice. By actively participating in the policymaking process, nurses can help bridge the gap between healthcare policy and the unique healthcare needs and disparities faced by the LGBTQ community.
2. Conducting Research and Generating Evidence
Another important political action nurses can take is conducting research and generating evidence to inform LGBTQ-inclusive healthcare policies. By conducting studies specifically focused on LGBTQ health issues and disparities, nurses can contribute to the body of evidence that supports the need for policy changes. This research can provide policymakers and healthcare stakeholders with the necessary evidence to understand and address the unique healthcare needs of the LGBTQ community. Nurses should collaborate with other healthcare professionals and researchers to ensure a comprehensive approach to research that encompasses all aspects of LGBTQ health, including physical, mental, and social aspects.
3. Providing Education and Training
Nurses can strengthen their role in policymaking for LGBTQ health by providing education and training to healthcare professionals and students. By enhancing the knowledge and understanding of LGBTQ health issues among the healthcare workforce, nurses can promote cultural competence and sensitivity in healthcare delivery. Nurses can develop and implement educational programs that address the specific health concerns and disparities faced by the LGBTQ community. This can include topics such as sexual orientation and gender identity inclusivity, LGBTQ-inclusive healthcare practices, and addressing biases and discrimination. By equipping healthcare professionals with the necessary knowledge and skills, nurses can contribute to the creation of a healthcare system that is sensitive and responsive to the needs of LGBTQ individuals.
Correlation to AACN MSN Essential
Among the AACN MSN Essentials, Essential V, “Healthcare Policy, and Advocacy for Improving Population Health,” pertains most to the topic of nurses strengthening their role in policymaking for LGBTQ health advocacy. Essential V emphasizes the importance of nurses’ engagement in policy development and advocating for social justice and equity in healthcare. It emphasizes that nurses should be knowledgeable about the healthcare system and policies that impact population health and be prepared to influence policy formulation through active participation and collaboration with interdisciplinary teams and stakeholders.
Essential V aligns with nurses’ political actions to strengthen their role in policymaking for LGBTQ health advocacy by recognizing the need for nurses to advocate for policies that promote equitable healthcare for all populations, including the LGBTQ community. By engaging in legislative advocacy, conducting research, and providing education and training, nurses fulfill the expectations outlined in Essential V. These actions contribute to addressing the unique healthcare needs and improving the health outcomes of the LGBTQ population.
Conclusion
In conclusion, nurses can play a critical role in policymaking and advocacy for improving LGBTQ health by taking specific political actions. Engaging in legislative advocacy, conducting research and generating evidence, and providing education and training are three essential actions that nurses can take to strengthen their role in addressing the healthcare needs of the LGBTQ community. These actions align with the AACN MSN Essential V, emphasizing the importance of nurses’ engagement in policy development and advocating for population health improvements. By actively participating in political actions, nurses can contribute to promoting equitable and inclusive healthcare for the LGBTQ community.