One of the most powerful things that we can engage in as public health nurses is to be involved in policy and procedure making! This is such an important aspect of public health nursing. Engaging in policy work allows nurses to influence practice standards to ensure quality of care (Burke, 2016). 1. What is the public health nurse role in policy and procedure making? 2.Have any of you had any prior experiences with this for your communities? 1 page and include at least 1 reference
The public health nurse plays a critical role in policy and procedure making, facilitating the implementation of evidence-based practices and advocating for the health and well-being of the community. Through their expertise in public health, these nurses possess the knowledge and skills necessary for effective policy development and can contribute to the creation of policies that address the specific needs of the population they serve. This essay explores the public health nurse’s role in policy and procedure making and highlights the significance of their engagement in this process.
To start, public health nurses serve as vital stakeholders in policy and procedure making. They bring their unique perspective and expertise to the table, collaborating with policymakers, government agencies, and other stakeholders to address public health issues and develop effective solutions. Nurses have a thorough understanding of the social determinants of health and the impact of policies on individuals, families, and communities. They are well-equipped to analyze data, identify trends, and assess the outcomes of existing policies to inform evidence-based decision-making. By actively participating in policy development, public health nurses can contribute to the formulation of policies that reflect the best available evidence and align with public health goals.
One of the key roles of public health nurses in policy and procedure making is advocating for health equity. Health equity, defined as the absence of avoidable and unfair differences in health outcomes, is an essential principle in public health (World Health Organization, 2019). Public health nurses understand that certain populations, such as underserved communities, racial and ethnic minorities, and individuals with lower socioeconomic status, are disproportionately affected by health disparities. Through their involvement in policy making, nurses can advocate for policies that address these disparities and promote equity in healthcare access and outcomes.
Moreover, public health nurses contribute to policy and procedure making by promoting preventive care and wellness. They understand the importance of early intervention and the potential of preventive measures to reduce the burden of disease. By advocating for policies that prioritize preventive services, such as vaccinations, screenings, and health education programs, nurses can help shift the healthcare system’s focus from treatment to prevention. This approach not only improves the overall health of the population but also reduces healthcare costs in the long run.
Public health nurses also play a critical role in policy implementation and evaluation. Once a policy is established, nurses are responsible for implementing the policy’s provisions in their practice settings. This includes educating healthcare providers and community members about the policy, ensuring compliance with the policy’s requirements, and monitoring its impact on health outcomes. Nurses have the firsthand experience and knowledge to assess the feasibility and effectiveness of policies, providing valuable feedback for policymakers to refine and improve policies over time.
In terms of prior experiences, many public health nurses have engaged in policy and procedure making at various levels. Nurses who work in government agencies, such as local health departments or state health departments, often play key roles in developing and implementing public health policies. They work closely with policymakers and other stakeholders to influence policy decisions and ensure that public health principles are considered. Similarly, nurses working in healthcare organizations, community health centers, or advocacy organizations may participate in policy-making processes that directly impact their practice settings or the communities they serve. Whether through participation in meetings, policy committees, or advocacy campaigns, these nurses have the opportunity to contribute their expertise and firsthand experiences to shape policies that promote public health.
In conclusion, the public health nurse’s role in policy and procedure making is crucial for the advancement of population health. By participating in policy development, implementation, and evaluation, public health nurses can influence practice standards, address health disparities, promote preventive care, and advocate for health equity. Their expertise and unique perspective enable them to contribute valuable insights and ensure that policies align with evidence-based practices. As such, public health nurses have a significant responsibility to actively engage in policy and procedure making to improve the health and well-being of the communities they serve.
Reference:
Burke, S. (2016). Policy and Advocacy for Improving Population Health. In Public Health Nursing: Practicing Population-Based Care (4th ed., pp. 97-108). Jones & Bartlett Learning.
World Health Organization. (2019). Health Equity. Retrieved from https://www.who.int/healthsystems/topics/equity/en/