Policy changes in nursing

How should nurses assure policy change for advanced practice registered nurses?”

What role does the Affordable Care Act (ACA) play in addressing workforce shortages in rural communities?

Full Answer Section

The Affordable Care Act (ACA) has played a role in addressing workforce shortages in rural communities by:

  • Expanding Medicaid: The ACA expanded Medicaid, which provides health insurance to low-income individuals. This has helped to increase the number of insured people in rural areas, which has led to an increase in demand for healthcare services.
  • Providing incentives for providers to practice in rural areas: The ACA provides incentives for providers to practice in rural areas, such as loan forgiveness programs and higher reimbursement rates. This has helped to attract providers to rural areas and address workforce shortages.
  • Supporting telehealth: The ACA supports telehealth, which allows healthcare providers to provide care to patients remotely. This has made it possible for providers to provide care to patients in rural areas who may not have otherwise had access to care.

The ACA has been successful in addressing workforce shortages in rural communities, but there is still more work to be done. Nurses can play a role in continuing to address these shortages by advocating for policies that support APRNs and rural healthcare providers.

Sample Answer

Nurses can assure policy change for advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs) by:

  • Advocating for APRNs: Nurses can advocate for APRNs by educating policymakers about the value of APRNs and the role they play in providing healthcare. They can also lobby for legislation that expands the scope of practice for APRNs and allows them to practice to the full extent of their education and training.
  • Building relationships with policymakers: Nurses can build relationships with policymakers by attending legislative meetings, writing letters to their elected officials, and testifying before committees. By building relationships, nurses can develop a better understanding of the political process and how to influence policy change.
  • Supporting APRN organizations: Nurses can support APRN organizations that are working to advance the profession. These organizations can provide nurses with resources and support to help them advocate for APRNs.