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Explanation of how healthcare policy can impact the advanced practice nurse profession
Explanation of why advocacy is considered an essential component of the advance practice nurse's role
Discuss the four pillars of Transformational leadership and the effect they may have on influencing policy change
Healthcare policy can have a significant impact on the advanced practice nurse (APN) profession by shaping the regulatory environment, defining the scope of practice, and influencing reimbursement structures. Changes in healthcare policy, such as expanded scope of practice laws or reimbursement reforms, can create opportunities or barriers for APNs to practice to the full extent regarding their training and expertise (Kleinpell et al., 2023). Policy decisions regarding licensure certification, education requirements, and collaborative practice agreements directly affect APNs ability to deliver highly-quality care and contribute to the healthcare system (Kleinpell et al., 2023).
Advocacy is considered an essential component of the advanced practice nurse’s role because it empowers APNs to voice concerns, promote change, and influence healthcare policy decisions that impact their practice and patient care outcomes (Goudreau & Smolenski, 2022). Advocacy permits APNs to advocate for their patients, profession, and healthcare system improvements (Goudreau & Smolenski, 2022). Advocacy also strengthens the profession by advancing nursing practice, promoting professional development, and driving positive change in healthcare (Goudreau & Smolenski, 2022).
Transformational Leadership, with its four pillars of idealized influence, inspirational motivation, intellectual stimulation, and individualized consideration, can have a significant impact on influencing policy change within healthcare systems (Grace et al., 2022). Idealized influence incorporates role modeling, setting high ethical standards, and earning trust and respect (Grace et al., 2022). Inspirational motivation inspires and engages others in a shared vision, rallying support for policy initiatives that correlate with the organizations goals and values. Intellectual stimulation promotes creativity, innovative thinking, and problem-solving skills that can drive policy change and reform (Grace et al., 2022). Individualized consideration involves personalized support, coaching, and mentoring, fostering collaboration and teamwork essential for promoting policy advocacy efforts for driving meaningful change (Grace et al., 2022).
By embodying transformational leadership principles, APNs can effectively advocate for policy changes that benefit patients, advanced nursing practice, and improve patient outcomes. By leveraging their leadership skills, influence, and expertise, APNs can drive policy change that supports the profession, promotes quality care, and contributes to the advancement of the healthcare systems.
References:
Goudreau, K. A., & Smolenski, M. C. (Eds.). (2022). Health policy and advanced practice nursing: Impact and implications. Springer Publishing Company.
Grace, P. J., Gaylord, N., & Roosevelt, E. (2022). Ethical Leadership by Advanced Practice Nurses. Nursing Ethics and Professional Responsibility in Advanced Practice, 167.
Kleinpell, R., Myers, C. R., & Schorn, M. N. (2023). Addressing Barriers to APRN Practice: policy and regulatory implications during COVID-19. Journal of Nursing Regulation, 14(1), 13-20.
