Respond and contribute to the following discussion: As an FNP the first step in reducing the risk of healthcare disparity is awareness;

Respond and contribute to the following discussion: As an FNP the first step in reducing the risk of healthcare disparity is awareness; self-awareness of our own implicit bias(es), awareness of systemic bias, and social awareness in general. One of the most significant ways FNPs can make an impact is by expanding access to care. This is certainly true in Vermont. One way to increase access to healthcare is through full practice authority(Joyce, n.d.). Another way that FNPs can impact healthcare disparity is by identifying and addressing social determinants of health (Patient Engagement HIT, 2021). A final suggestion for FNPs in making a difference in health care disparity is to stay involved or active in health policy/legislation. In the NPT Reports (2021) video assigned this week a protester is seen holding a sign that reads, “being silent means being complicit”. This is a weighty statement that really made me think about my own impact.