Discuss barriers to practice as an APN in one’s state from both a state and national perspective. Research methods to influence policy change from various forms of competition, state legislative and executive branches of government and interest groups. Using the readings from this week as well as outside reliable resources to:
Introduction
As an Advanced Practice Nurse (APN), practicing within one’s state can be influenced by various barriers from both a state and national perspective. These barriers can limit the scope of practice for APNs and hinder their ability to provide high-quality and cost-effective care to patients. In order to overcome these barriers and influence policy change, it is important to understand the methods available to APNs, including forms of competition, engagement with state legislative and executive branches of government, and collaboration with interest groups. This essay will explore these methods and discuss their potential for influencing policy change.
Barriers to Practice as an APN
Barriers to practice as an APN can be categorized into two broader perspectives: state and national. At the state level, APNs may face barriers such as restrictive scope of practice laws, which prevent them from performing certain procedures or providing specific types of care. These laws are often influenced by physician organizations that seek to protect their own professional interests and maintain control over healthcare delivery. Additionally, APNs may encounter limitations in their ability to prescribe medication independently, requiring a physician’s oversight or collaborative agreement. These restrictions can limit APNs’ autonomy and impede their ability to provide timely and comprehensive care to patients.
On a national scale, APNs face barriers such as reimbursement limitations and restrictions imposed by insurance companies or government payers. This can result in lower reimbursement rates for APNs compared to physicians, discouraging APNs from entering or remaining in the profession. This also affects patient access to high-quality care, as APNs may be reluctant to provide services if they are not adequately reimbursed.
Research Methods to Influence Policy Change
In order to influence policy change at both the state and national level, APNs can employ various research methods and strategies. These methods include engaging in forms of competition, advocacy within state legislative and executive branches of government, and collaboration with interest groups.
Competitive Strategies
APNs can employ competitive strategies to influence policy change by demonstrating their competence, effectiveness, and cost-efficiency in providing healthcare services. This involves conducting research studies and publishing findings that support the positive impact of APN-led care on patient outcomes and cost savings. By presenting evidence to policymakers and stakeholders, APNs can challenge existing misconceptions and stereotypes about their abilities and demonstrate the value they bring to the healthcare system.
Advocacy within Legislative and Executive Branches
Engaging with state legislative and executive branches of government is another important method to influence policy change. APNs can actively participate in the policy-making process by attending public hearings, testifying before committees, and meeting with lawmakers. By sharing their expertise and experiences, APNs can educate legislators about the benefits of expanded scope of practice and the need for policy changes to improve access to care. Building relationships with key policymakers and staying informed about relevant legislation are critical steps in influencing policy change.
Collaboration with Interest Groups
Collaborating with interest groups is also a viable strategy for APNs to influence policy change. Interest groups, such as consumer advocacy organizations or nursing associations, can provide a collective voice for APNs and amplify their influence. APNs can join these groups, participate in their advocacy efforts, and contribute to their research and policy development initiatives. By working together, APNs and interest groups can harness their collective power to impact policy change and advocate for improved access to care.
Conclusion
The barriers to practice as an APN can significantly impact the ability of APNs to provide high-quality and cost-effective care to patients. However, through various research methods, APNs can influence policy change at both the state and national levels. Competing on the basis of research evidence, advocating within legislative and executive branches of government, and collaborating with interest groups are all effective strategies for APNs to overcome barriers and shape healthcare policy to better reflect the needs of patients and the capabilities of APNs. By actively engaging in these methods, APNs can work towards creating a more favorable practice environment and ultimately improve patient outcomes.