#1

 

Elliot, R. (2025) state nurses have a crucial role in advocating for change at various levels to improve healthcare and the nursing profession. Participating in organizations like the American Nurses Association (ANA) or state-level nursing associations provides a collective voice to lobby policymakers, develop policy agendas, and advocate for nurses’ interests and patient care standards. These organizations often have dedicated government affairs teams that work on behalf of nurses. On a local level nurses can join community-based organizations focused on specific health issues such as maternal health, substance abuse to advocate for local policy changes and resource allocation. On a state level joining state nursing associations will actively lobby state legislatures on issues affecting nursing practice, patient safety, and healthcare funding. Communicating with state representatives and senators about pending healthcare legislation and sharing the impact on nurses and patients. Sharing information with candidates about the importance of specific healthcare legislation, such as S.891- Bipartisan Health Care Act (Pending Bill), and how it would impact their constituents. This can involve meetings, letters, and providing data and personal stories (2025).

Does understanding a candidate’s stance on health and healthcare matter? Absolutely. Understanding a candidate’s position on health and healthcare is crucial for several reasons. Healthcare legislation directly affects how nurses provide care, the resources available, and the policies that govern their practice. Elected officials make decisions that shape the overall health and well-being of the population they serve. By understanding a candidate’s stance, nurses can make informed decisions when voting and advocate for candidates who will support policies that promote quality patient care, a strong nursing workforce, and a healthy society (Han, 2020).

An activist is a person who believes strongly in political or social change and takes part in activities such as public protests, lobbying, campaigning, or other forms of advocacy to make that change happen. The role of a nurse as an activist involves leveraging their professional knowledge, ethical obligations, and trusted position in society to advocate for policies and changes that improve patient care, public health, and the nursing profession itself. A nurse activist uses their unique perspective and skills to be a catalyst for positive change in healthcare and society, recognizing that their role extends beyond direct patient care to encompass broader issues of health, well-being, and social justice (Han, 2020).

#2

 

As nurses, we hold a unique and powerful voice in advocating for healthcare changes. We can make a difference in many wonderful ways, such as participating in policy discussions, joining professional organizations, and engaging with our communities (Mason et al., 2020). Becoming politically active is as simple as attending and sharing our thoughts at city council or county health board meetings. Many organizations, such as the American Nurses Association, offer great support for healthcare advocacy and work to push legislation forward. Additionally, it’s important to host or participate in public forums and town halls, which are great opportunities to educate the public about critical healthcare issues.

Nurses can advocate for healthcare legislation during elections by educating voters about candidates’ positions on health-related issues, participating in voter registration drives aimed at healthcare workers and patients, and utilizing social media platforms like Instagram and Twitter to raise awareness of healthcare issues and promote political engagement (Turale et al., 2019).   I believe it’s important for us as nurses to understand the candidate’s views on health and healthcare. When we vote with knowledge, we can help ensure that those we elect prioritize health equity and patient safety and advocate for nurses (NLN, 2020). This truly matters because it impacts funding, staffing ratios, and access to care. Plus, it shapes policies around mental health and reproductive health while also influencing the working conditions for nurses and the overall quality of care we provide (Robert Wood Johnson Foundation, 2018).

An activist is an individual who endeavors to effectuate social or political change, frequently through organized initiatives such as protests, campaigns, or public educational efforts (Florell, 2021).  Nurse activists combine their clinical expertise with civic participation to contribute to advancing the healthcare system toward a more just and equitable direction. A nurse activist advocates for social justice within the healthcare sector and undertakes measures to enhance working conditions, patient safety, and access to care. They raise awareness concerning issues such as health disparities, racial inequities, and access to mental health services. Furthermore, nurse activists may engage in lobbying, education, or community organizations to promote health policy reforms (Cruz et al., 2020).

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