Why APRN Political Competence Is Key to Shaping Healthcare Policy

APRN Political Competence in the Policy Arena

The move to doctoral education for APRNs elevates the need for APRN involvement in policy development because effective leadership demands it. Policy competency requires APRNs to incorporate policy strategies continuously among the practice, research, and policy nexus in all practice settings. The American Association of Colleges of Nursing’s (AACN) 2021 Essentials emphasize the importance of health policy in nursing education at all levels, threading these concepts across multiple domains of competency. APRNs must be prepared to assume broad leadership roles on behalf of the public and nursing profession.

Competency in health policy involves goal-directed decision making within an authorized public decision-making process. This represents a critical aspect of advocacy for patients and for the nursing profession by speaking with a united voice on policy issues that affect nursing practice and health outcomes. APRNs, with their clinical credibility and expertise, are well positioned to design, inform, and influence policy solutions. However, this will only happen if they expand their influence beyond clinical settings.

Table: APRN Political Competence Overview

APRN Leadership in Policy Development

APRNs’ engagement in policy extends beyond advocacy; it involves actively shaping policy agendas. For instance, the American Association of Nurse Anesthesiology (AANA) operates the largest federal nursing political action committee (PAC) in the U.S. With over $1.3 million in donations during each election cycle, AANA’s CRNA-PAC is one of the most influential healthcare PACs in the country. The PAC’s primary mission is to advance the profession of nurse anesthesia through federal political advocacy, making strategic and informed decisions based on its mission, leadership, and advocacy agenda.

The Role of Political Advocacy for APRNs

Political competence for APRNs requires more than participation; it demands deep involvement in policy processes. By understanding and engaging with legislative frameworks, APRNs can influence key decisions that impact the healthcare system. The complex dynamics of social injustices, politicized healthcare delivery, and financial barriers require goal-directed decision-making, underpinned by a comprehensive understanding of health policy.

APRNs are uniquely suited to address these issues. They possess the clinical credibility to inform policy solutions, but they must actively engage in political advocacy to drive the changes needed in healthcare. The success of political advocacy often depends on a unified approach, where the voice of nursing professionals is amplified to address issues such as the scope of practice, healthcare costs, and patient access to care.

Five Key Elements of APRN Political Competence

1. Leadership Development
   APRNs must develop leadership skills that allow them to navigate the policy arena confidently. This includes understanding the legislative process, building relationships with policymakers, and strategically advocating for the profession.

2. Knowledge of Healthcare Policy
   A deep understanding of healthcare policy is crucial for APRNs. From navigating regulations to influencing legislation, APRNs must be well-versed in the key issues affecting the healthcare landscape.

3. Strategic Communication
   Communicating effectively with policymakers, stakeholders, and the public is essential for political competence. APRNs must articulate the value of their role in improving patient outcomes and the overall healthcare system.

4. Advocacy for Nursing and Public Health
   Advocacy goes beyond representing the nursing profession. APRNs must advocate for public health initiatives that improve patient care, address healthcare disparities, and support access to high-quality care.

5. Collaboration with Stakeholders
   Building strong partnerships with other healthcare professionals, patient advocacy groups, and policymakers is essential for influencing policy decisions.

APRNs and Policy Advocacy: The AANA Example

AANA’s CRNA-PAC exemplifies how APRNs can influence healthcare policy through well-structured political advocacy efforts. The PAC employs a grassroots-driven approach, engaging CRNAs from across the country to provide local information about congressional campaigns. The AANA focuses its financial support on candidates who align with the CRNA agenda, ensuring that legislative decisions benefit the profession and patients.

Through PAC contributions, the AANA gains access to policymakers, providing opportunities to educate them about the benefits of CRNA care. This access allows CRNAs to discuss the impact of restrictive practices on patient care and healthcare costs. The success of the CRNA-PAC also lies in its early engagement of nurse anesthesia students, instilling the importance of political involvement from the start of their careers.

FAQs About APRN Political Competence

Q: Why is political competence important for APRNs?
A: Political competence enables APRNs to influence healthcare policy decisions that directly affect patient care, the scope of nursing practice, and the overall healthcare system.

Q: How can APRNs get involved in policy development?
A: APRNs can engage in policy development by participating in political action committees, joining professional organizations, attending legislative meetings, and building relationships with policymakers.

Q: What skills are necessary for APRN political competence?
A: Leadership, communication, strategic thinking, and a deep understanding of healthcare policy are essential for APRN political competence.

Q: How does political advocacy benefit the nursing profession?
A: Political advocacy amplifies the voice of the nursing profession, ensuring that nursing perspectives are considered in healthcare legislation and policy decisions, leading to better health outcomes for patients.

Q: What are some examples of APRN involvement in policy?
A: The AANA’s CRNA-PAC is a notable example, where nurse anesthetists influence healthcare policy by supporting legislative candidates aligned with their professional goals.