As a nurse, how often have you thought to yourself, If I had anything to do about it, things would work a little differently? Increasingly, nurses are beginning to realize that they do, in fact, have a role and a voice.
Many nurses encounter daily experiences that motivate them to take on an advocacy role in hopes of impacting policies, laws, or regulations that impact healthcare issues of interest. Of course, doing so means entering the less familiar world of policy and politics. While many nurses do not initially feel prepared to operate in this space effectively, the reward is the opportunity to shape and influence future health policy.
Based on the health-related bill (proposed, not enacted) you selected, complete the Legislation Grid Template. Be sure to address the following:
• Determine the legislative intent of the bill you have reviewed.
• Identify the proponents/opponents of the bill.
• Identify the target populations addressed by the bill.
• Where in the process is the bill currently? Is it in hearings or committees?
Full Answer Section
- Capping the amount that insurance companies can charge for premiums and out-of-pocket costs
- Requiring insurance companies to cover people with pre-existing conditions
- Investing in preventive care and primary care
Proponents:
- The bill is supported by a broad range of organizations, including the American Medical Association, the American Public Health Association, and the American Nurses Association.
- Proponents of the bill argue that it is necessary to address the high cost of health care in the United States and to expand access to health insurance.
- They also argue that the bill would improve the quality of health care by investing in preventive care and primary care.
Opponents:
- The bill is opposed by some conservative organizations, such as the Heritage Foundation and the American Enterprise Institute.
- Opponents of the bill argue that it would be too expensive and that it would lead to government rationing of health care.
- They also argue that the bill would give the government too much control over the health care system.
My Perspective as a Nurse:
As a nurse, I support the Proposed Health Care Affordability Act of 2023. I believe that it is necessary to expand access to affordable health insurance and to improve the quality and affordability of health care in the United States.
I have seen firsthand the impact that the high cost of health care can have on people's lives. I have seen people forgo necessary medical care because they cannot afford it. I have also seen people go bankrupt because of medical bills.
I believe that the Proposed Health Care Affordability Act of 2023 would make a real difference in the lives of millions of Americans. It would expand access to health insurance and make health care more affordable. It would also invest in preventive care and primary care, which would improve the quality of health care.
I urge Congress to pass the Proposed Health Care Affordability Act of 2023. It is a good bill that would make a real difference in the lives of Americans.
How I Would Advocate for This Bill
If I were to advocate for the Proposed Health Care Affordability Act of 2023, I would:
- Contact my elected officials and let them know that I support the bill.
- Write letters to the editor of my local newspaper and op-eds for other publications in support of the bill.
- Talk to my friends, family, and patients about the bill and why it is important.
- Organize or attend rallies and other events in support of the bill.
- Work with other nurses and healthcare professionals to advocate for the bill.
I believe that it is important for nurses to speak out on healthcare policy issues. We have a unique perspective on the healthcare system and we can help to educate the public and our elected officials about the importance of expanding access to affordable health care.
Sample Answer
Legislation Grid Template
Bill: Proposed Health Care Affordability Act of 2023
Legislative Intent:
The legislative intent of the Proposed Health Care Affordability Act of 2023 is to expand access to affordable health insurance and to improve the quality and affordability of health care in the United States. The bill would do this by:
- Expanding Medicaid eligibility to all low-income Americans
- Providing subsidies to help individuals and families purchase health insurance
- Creating a public option for health insurance