APA style. 250 words. 2 references (less than 5 years). 1-Describe could take to strengthen their role in policymaking as it relates to advocacy for improving LGBTQ health. -action one -action two -action tree 2-Correlate your discussion to the AACN 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: 1
Strengthening the role of healthcare professionals in policymaking is crucial for advocacy and improving LGBTQ health. There are several actions that can be taken to achieve this goal.
First, healthcare professionals should actively engage in advocacy efforts by joining professional organizations and networks that focus on LGBTQ health. By being part of these groups, healthcare professionals can collaborate with others who share the same goal of improving LGBTQ health and work together to address policy issues that impact this community. This can include advocating for policies that promote equal access to healthcare services, culturally competent care, and non-discriminatory practices.
Secondly, healthcare professionals should educate themselves on the specific healthcare needs and disparities faced by LGBTQ individuals. This can be achieved by attending continuing education programs, workshops, and conferences that provide up-to-date information on LGBTQ health issues. By becoming knowledgeable about the unique challenges faced by this population, healthcare professionals can effectively advocate for policies that address these concerns. Additionally, they can use this knowledge to provide culturally competent care to LGBTQ individuals in their own practice.
Furthermore, healthcare professionals can strengthen their role in policymaking by actively participating in research related to LGBTQ health. By conducting and disseminating research, healthcare professionals can contribute evidence-based knowledge that can inform policy development and implementation. This can involve conducting studies to further understand the healthcare needs of the LGBTQ community, evaluating the effectiveness of interventions, or identifying barriers to accessing healthcare services. By providing rigorous research, healthcare professionals can influence policymakers to develop and implement policies that promote LGBTQ health.
An AACN that pertains to this topic is the AACN Essentials for Doctoral Education for Advanced Nursing Practice. This AACN document focuses on equipping nurses with the knowledge and skills needed to influence policy and lead change in healthcare systems. The document emphasizes the importance of understanding the social, political, and economic factors that influence healthcare policy, as well as the need for nurses to advocate for vulnerable populations. Strengthening the role of healthcare professionals in policymaking aligns with this AACN Essential, as it empowers nurses to advocate for the health and rights of LGBTQ individuals.
In the Joint Commission’s field guide on LGBT Equality, it highlights the importance of culturally competent care for LGBTQ patients and provides recommendations for healthcare organizations to improve their practices. Some of the key recommendations include adopting patient non-discrimination policies, training staff on LGBTQ health issues, and providing equal access to healthcare services for LGBTQ individuals. By following these recommendations, healthcare organizations can promote LGBTQ health and reduce health disparities within this population.
The CDC’s website also provides valuable resources on LGBTQ health. It offers guidance for healthcare providers on topics such as HIV prevention, tobacco use, mental health, and sexual health for LGBTQ individuals. The CDC’s resources can help inform healthcare professionals about evidence-based practices for providing adequate care for the LGBTQ community.
In conclusion, strengthening the role of healthcare professionals in policymaking is crucial for advocacy and improving LGBTQ health. By actively engaging in advocacy, educating themselves, participating in research, and aligning with relevant AACN Essentials, healthcare professionals can effectively advocate for policies that promote LGBTQ health. Additionally, implementing recommendations from organizations like the Joint Commission and utilizing resources from the CDC can help healthcare professionals provide adequate care for the LGBTQ community.