The Role of Nurses in Agenda Setting for Healthcare Issues

The Role of Nurses in Agenda Setting for Healthcare Issues

Nurses are essential stakeholders in addressing substance abuse and mental health concerns. As frontline healthcare providers, nurses have firsthand experience in caring for patients with substance use and mental health disorders, providing them with the knowledge and expertise to inform policymaking. Nurses are well-positioned to advocate for policies that promote prevention, early intervention, and access to care for individuals with substance use and mental health disorders. They can also collaborate with policymakers and other healthcare professionals to develop and implement strategies that address the social determinants of health that contribute to substance abuse and mental health issues (ANA, 2020). Therefore, nurses must be actively engaged in the legislative agenda-setting process to advance public health outcomes and promote equitable access to care.

References

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Canady, V. A. (2022). New federal investments for states to develop CCBHCs. Mental Health Weekly, 32(41), 3-4.