The Future of Nursing 2020-2030 Report was created to discuss the role nurses can play in reducing health disparities and promoting equity while increasing efficiency, making use of technology, as well as maintaining patient-centered care into 2030

The Future of Nursing 2020-2030 Report was created to discuss the role nurses can play in reducing health disparities and promoting equity while increasing efficiency, making use of technology, as well as maintaining patient-centered care into 2030 (National Academies of Sciences, Engineering & Medicine, 2021). Presented in this report are 10 outcomes on nursing contribution that would aide to achieve health equality. In chapter 2: Social Determinants of Health and Health Equality, I found the most relevance. It is the purpose of this chapter to highlight the many healthcare inequalities that are present in the United States. In spite of the fact that the U.S. spends the most on healthcare, we remain the country with the highest poverty rate. As defined by the United States Department of Health and Human Services, social determinants include economic stability, education, community context, health and health care, and neighborhood and built environment (National Academies of Sciences, Engineering & Medicine, 2021). These factors influence health outcomes experienced by people from low-income backgrounds, people of color, and those living in rural areas.

The American Academy of Nursing, which seeks to advance health policy and practice in the public and professional realms, reaches out to policymakers in Congress, the Administration and works collaboratively with key national stakeholders to shape policy and ensure the integration of nurses’ solutions into a quality health care system. In the fight against social determinants and healthcare inequality, the American Academy of Nursing has demonstrated support. This is evident in the letter written by the Academy supporting Congresswoman Lauren Underwood in February of 2021 for the Black Maternal Health Momnibus Act of 2021 (Momnibus). H.R.959 aims to improve maternal health outcomes in the United States, particularly for Black mothers. Among the topics addressed by the bills are COVID-19, climate change, mental health, female veteran care, and vaccines (Congress.gov., n.d.).

As a current employee in the Women and Children’s Unit, an advanced practice nurse has the opportunity to share information about this issue with colleagues through newsletters, position statements, and social media outlets. It is also possible to write letters to Congress explaining why this issue is important or as an alternative, organize a group that will join community-based organizations to support the cause.