WEEK 11 Describe three political actions nurses could take to strengthen their role in policymaking as it relates to advocacy for improving LGBTQ health. 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: Purchase the answer to view it
Title: Strengthening the Role of Nurses in Policymaking for LGBTQ Health: Three Political Actions
Introduction:
Nurses play a crucial role in advocating for and improving the health of the LGBTQ (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, and Queer) community. They possess unique insights into healthcare challenges faced by this population and can contribute to policymaking efforts that address these issues. This paper focuses on three political actions that nurses can undertake to strengthen their role in policymaking for LGBTQ health. The discussion will also correlate these actions to the American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN) Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) Essentials, emphasizing the essential that is most pertinent to this topic.
Political Action 1: Collaboration and Networking
Collaboration and networking are central to nurses’ political engagement in policymaking for LGBTQ health. By forming partnerships with likeminded individuals and organizations, nurses can amplify their voices and advocate for policy changes effectively. Collaboration enables nurses to share knowledge, resources, and experiences, enhancing their collective ability to influence policymakers. Networks can consist of LGBTQ advocacy groups, professional organizations, governmental agencies, and policymakers themselves.
Nurses engaging in collaboration and networking can actively participate in interprofessional efforts to address LGBTQ health disparities. By forging alliances, they can push for policies that promote LGBTQ cultural competency training for healthcare professionals, inclusive health education curricula, and access to LGBTQ-friendly healthcare services. Moreover, through networks, nurses can support the development and dissemination of evidence-based research focusing on LGBTQ health, which can inform policymaking and resource allocation decisions.
Correlation to AACN MSN Essential: Essential IX – Baccalaureate Generalist Nursing Practice
The essential that most pertains to the above political action is Essential IX – Baccalaureate Generalist Nursing Practice. This essential underscores the importance of engaging in interprofessional collaboration to address healthcare disparities and enact changes in healthcare delivery systems. Nurses working towards the well-being of the LGBTQ population need to collaborate with other healthcare professionals, policymakers, and community organizations. By doing so, nurses can foster understanding of LGBTQ health needs across disciplines and effect change in policy and practice.
Political Action 2: Policy Advocacy
Policy advocacy is another critical political action that nurses can pursue to strengthen their role in policymaking for LGBTQ health. Nurses possess firsthand knowledge of the barriers LGBTQ individuals face when accessing healthcare, the impact of discriminatory policies, and the health disparities that result from social stigmatization. By using their expertise and experiences, nurses can advocate for policies that promote equity, inclusivity, and improved healthcare outcomes for the LGBTQ community.
Policy advocacy can take various forms, including grassroots activism, engaging with legislators, and participating in public hearings or policy committees. Nurses can craft persuasive arguments based on evidence and engage in public discourse to educate decision-makers about the unique healthcare needs of LGBTQ individuals. They can also join and actively participate in professional nursing organizations that advocate for LGBTQ health and influence policy development at the state and national levels.
Correlation to AACN MSN Essential: Essential VI – Health Policy and Advocacy
Essential VI – Health Policy and Advocacy is particularly relevant to this political action. This essential emphasizes the need for nurses to engage in policy development and advocacy to influence healthcare regulation, financing, delivery, and access. By actively advocating for LGBTQ health policies, nurses can contribute to the development of regulations that prioritize the health and well-being of this population. This essential underscores the importance of understanding policy processes, conducting policy analysis, and collaborating with legislators and stakeholders to enact change.
Political Action 3: Educational Initiatives
Educational initiatives are another vital political action that nurses can undertake to strengthen their role in policymaking for LGBTQ health. Nurses can develop and implement educational programs targeting healthcare providers, educators, and the general public to increase awareness and knowledge about LGBTQ health disparities, foster cultural competence, and reduce discrimination. By enhancing knowledge and understanding among healthcare professionals and the public, nurses can lay the groundwork for policy changes that positively affect the LGBTQ community’s health outcomes.
Educational initiatives can include workshops, seminars, lectures, and the development of educational materials and resources. Nurses can collaborate with academic institutions, professional organizations, and community groups to incorporate LGBTQ health topics into curricula and continuing education programs. By providing accurate and up-to-date information, nurses can challenge prevailing biases and stereotypes, fostering an environment where LGBTQ individuals receive competent and affirming care.
Correlation to AACN MSN Essential: Essential VIII – Professionalism and Professional Values
Essential VIII – Professionalism and Professional Values aligns closely with the educational initiatives taken by nurses regarding LGBTQ health. This essential emphasizes the role of advanced practice nurses in promoting healthcare access, quality, and equity. Through their educational initiatives, nurses uphold professional values such as ethics, integrity, and social justice. They provide education to healthcare professionals and the public, challenging stigma and discrimination and promoting the rights and well-being of LGBTQ individuals. This essential supports nurses in their efforts to shape policy by equipping them with the knowledge, skills, and values necessary to advocate for healthcare initiatives that benefit the LGBTQ community.
Conclusion:
Nurses have a unique opportunity to contribute to policymaking efforts focused on LGBTQ health. By engaging in collaboration and networking, policy advocacy, and educational initiatives, nurses can strengthen their role in shaping policies that address LGBTQ health disparities. These actions align with relevant AACN MSN Essentials and reflect the profession’s commitment to social justice, equity, and holistic care. By actively participating in these political actions, nurses can advance the healthcare agenda for the LGBTQ community and improve health outcomes for all.