Key Questions for Nurses Who Want to Affect Health Policy
1. Know the system. Is it a federal, state, or local issue? Is it in the
hands of the executive, legislative, or judicial branch of
government?
2. Know the issue. What is wrong? What should happen? Why is it
not happening? What is needed—leadership, a plan, pressure, or
data?
3. Know the players. Who is on your side, and who is not? Who will
make the decision? Who knows whom? Will a coalition be
effective? Are you a member of the professional nursing
organization?
4. Know the process. Is this a vote? Is this an appropriation? Is this a
legislative procedure? Is this a committee or subcommittee
5. Know what to do. Should you write, call, arrange a lunch
meeting, organize a petition, show up at the hearing, give
testimony, demonstrate, or file a suit?
