Identify an elected official that is a nurse (anywhere in the world), and then provide an introduction, with a picture, for this official
· Review resources about running for elected office.
· Consider what it might take—including resources, manpower, education, money, etc.—to run for office.
· Research nurses who have become elected officials.
· Consider why nurses might consider running for office.
By Day 3 of Week 10
Post a response detailing the following:
· What does it take to run for elected office? What are the resources you may need?
· After determining what it takes to run for office, identify an elected official that is a nurse (anywhere in the world), and then provide an introduction, with a picture, for this official.
· Finally, explain why running for office is important for nurses to consider.
By Day 6 of Week 10
Read a selection of your colleagues’ posts. Respond to at least two of your colleagues on 2 different days by supporting or expanding on the ideas identified by your colleagues or sharing additional perspectives on the issue described by your colleagues.
RESPOND TO THIS DISCUSSION POST
Casey
Elected Office
Running for elected office is an endeavor that requires a combination of resources, dedication, and strategic planning. Individuals who run for office must be prepared to invest time, money, and effort into their campaigns while also understanding the intricacies of political processes (Pitsker, 2019). According to the American Nurses Association (ANA), Nurses bring a valuable perspective to the political arena with their unique insights into healthcare and patient advocacy (ANA, n.d.). By examining the journey of nurses transitioning into elected roles, we can better understand their motivations and challenges. This discussion aims to explore what it takes to run for elected office, highlight a nurse who has become an elected official, and discuss why it is important for nurses to consider running for office.
Resources Required
Running for elected office requires a significant investment of various resources to successfully navigate the complexities of political campaigns. Manpower is essential, as a robust team of dedicated individuals is necessary to coordinate campaign operations. Volunteers, advisors, and campaign staff work to manage diverse aspects, including strategic planning, community outreach, and voter engagement efforts (Pitsker, 2019). Education plays a pivotal role; candidates must possess a deep understanding of political processes, campaign strategies, and the concerns of their constituents, which often necessitates preparation and continuous learning to stay informed and relevant (Porche, 2023).
Equally important are financial resources, as modern campaigns demand funding to cover expenses such as advertising, promotional materials, events, and logistical needs. Without adequate financial backing, the most qualified candidates may struggle to communicate their message and reach voters (Pitsker, 2019). Furthermore, time is an invaluable resource. Candidates must devote countless hours to attending events, meeting constituents, addressing concerns, and maintaining a strong public presence. This intense schedule often requires candidates to balance personal commitments with the demands of the campaign trail (Porche, 2023). These elements create the foundation of a well-rounded and effective campaign, reflecting the dedication and strategic effort required to succeed in the political arena.
Identifying a Nurse Who is an Elected Official
Lauren Underwood, a registered nurse and U.S. Representative for Illinois’s 14th congressional district stands out as a leader in healthcare policy. As the youngest African American woman to serve in Congress and co-chair of the House Democratic Policy and Communications Committee, she has broken barriers while championing healthcare reform. Her career spans critical roles, including working with Medicaid and serving as a Senior Advisor at the Department of Health and Human Services (Underwood, 2024). These experiences have equipped her with a deep understanding of healthcare systems and public health policy, making her a powerful advocate for equitable access to care (Dawes, 2020).
Her nursing background offers insights into healthcare delivery, allowing her to approach policymaking with a patient-centered perspective. She has been a vocal proponent of legislation to reduce disparities, expand access to care, and strengthen public health infrastructure (Underwood, 2024). By leveraging her clinical expertise and policy knowledge, Underwood exemplifies nurses’ transformative role in government and legislative advocacy, bridging the gap between practice and policy to drive policy change (Porche, 2023).
Importance of Nurses Running for Elected Positions
Nurses can shape healthcare policy and address pressing societal challenges due to their direct experience with patient care and public health. Their understanding of healthcare systems equips them to advocate for policies that improve access, quality, and care affordability. In office, nurses can address social determinants of health through legislation, targeting root causes of disparities in housing, education, and economic opportunity (Dawes, 2020). With professional insights, nurses are positioned to ensure healthcare policies are grounded in practical realities and focused on patient-centered outcomes (Porche, 2023).
The political impact of nurses extends beyond healthcare; they influence broader legislative priorities that affect the well-being of communities. By serving in elected positions, nurses like U.S. Representative Lauren Underwood, who introduced the Prioritizing Rural Hospitals Act to address challenges in underserved areas, demonstrate how a healthcare perspective can shape impactful policies (Underwood, 2024). Nurses can connect with constituents, understand systemic issues, and collaborate across disciplines, which makes them invaluable in advocating for comprehensive and equitable public health measures. Their leadership is instrumental in driving meaningful reforms and ensuring legislative decisions promote health equity (American Nurses Association, n.d.).
Summary
Nurses running for the elected office bring a vital perspective shaped by their experience with healthcare systems and patient care. Their expertise enables them to advocate for policies addressing healthcare disparities and promoting equitable access to care (Dawes, 2020). Leaders like Representative Lauren Underwood exemplify the transformative impact nurses can have in government, leveraging their clinical expertise to craft meaningful and impactful healthcare legislation. By serving in elected roles, nurses ensure that the needs of patients and communities are central to policy decisions.
References
American Nurses Association. (n.d.). Nurses serving in Congress. Retrieved from https://www.nursingworld.org/practice-policy/advocacy/federal/nurses-serving-in-congress/
Dawes, D. E. (2020). The political determinants of health. Johns Hopkins University Press.
Pitsker, K. (2019). How to run for local office. Kiplinger. Retrieved from https://www.kiplinger.com/article/business/t043-c000-s002-how-to-run-for-local-office.html
Porche, D. J. (2023). Health policy: Application for nurses and other healthcare professionals (3rd ed.). Jones & Bartlett Learning.
Underwood, L. (2024). Underwood introduces Prioritizing Rural Hospitals Act to strengthen health care in rural communities. Retrieved from https://underwood.house.gov/media/press-releases/underwood-introduces-prioritizing-rural-hospitals-act-strengthen-health-careLinks to an external site.
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