It is very important that community health nurses provide not only input to policy circles through advocacy but also leadership at decision-making tables. The community health nurse is reviewing an online in-service program on the importance of this role in providing an essential influence and unique perspective in health care.
Seasoned advocates have developed skills in influencing policy decisions. Some individuals use the “ten commandments of lobbying.” What are the basic ideas that are inherent to advocates?
The community health nurse needs to know something about the forces shaping health policy and the policy process in order to be in a better position to influence policy outcomes. What are the three components of Kingdon’s framework for policy analysis?
Full Answer Section
The "ten commandments of lobbying" are a set of guidelines that can help advocates be more effective in their work. These commandments include:
- Know your audience. Who are you trying to influence? What are their needs and priorities?
- Be clear about your message. What do you want to achieve? What evidence do you have to support your position?
- Be persistent. Don't give up if you don't get what you want right away. Keep coming back to the issue.
- Be respectful. Even if you disagree with someone, be respectful of their point of view.
- Build relationships. Get to know the people you are trying to influence.
- Be willing to compromise. You may not get everything you want, but you may be able to get some of it.
- Be patient. Policymaking is a slow process. Don't expect change to happen overnight.
- Be creative. There are many ways to advocate for change. Don't be afraid to think outside the box.
- Have fun! Advocacy can be a rewarding experience. Enjoy the challenge of making a difference.
- Don't give up. Keep fighting for what you believe in.
Kingdon's framework for policy analysis is a model that helps us understand how policies are made. The framework has three components:
- Problem recognition: This is the process of identifying a problem that needs to be addressed.
- Policy formulation: This is the process of developing solutions to the problem.
- Policy adoption: This is the process of getting the solution implemented.
The framework can be used to understand how health policies are made. For example, the problem of childhood obesity might be recognized by a group of health professionals. They might then develop a policy proposal to increase physical activity in schools. This proposal would then need to be adopted by policymakers before it could be implemented.
By understanding the forces shaping health policy and the policy process, community health nurses can be in a better position to influence policy outcomes. They can use their knowledge and skills to advocate for policies that will improve the health of their communities.
Sample Answer
You are right, it is very important for community health nurses to provide input to policy circles through advocacy and to take leadership roles at decision-making tables. They have a unique perspective and skillset that can be invaluable in shaping health policy.
Here are some of the basic ideas that are inherent to advocates:
- Become familiar with the policy process. This includes understanding how policies are made, who the key players are, and how to influence the process.
- Build relationships with key stakeholders. This includes policymakers, legislators, and other advocates.
- Be prepared to speak up. This means being able to articulate your position clearly and concisely, and being willing to challenge the status quo.
- Be persistent. Policymaking is a long and often frustrating process, but it is important to keep at it.
- Be creative. There are many ways to advocate for change, so be willing to think outside the box.