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The role of nurses as advocates in the healthcare system extends beyond direct patient care to encompass broader issues such as COVID vaccination mandates, telemedicine, and prescription drug pricing. Nurses have a unique perspective on these matters due to their frontline experience and comprehensive understanding of patient needs.
Regarding COVID vaccination mandates, nurses play a critical role in educating patients and the public about the importance and safety of vaccinations. They provide evidence-based information, address concerns, and dispel myths, advocating for vaccination to protect individual and public health. Nurses can actively participate in vaccination campaigns, administer vaccines, and ensure equitable access to immunization services, particularly in underserved communities.
In the realm of telemedicine, nurses serve as advocates by embracing and promoting this innovative healthcare delivery model. They can educate patients about the benefits of telemedicine, assist in navigating virtual healthcare platforms, and ensure that patients receive appropriate care remotely. Nurses also advocate for the integration of telemedicine into healthcare policies and guidelines, advocating for its expansion to improve access to care, particularly in rural or underserved areas.
When it comes to prescription drug pricing, nurses are at the forefront of advocating for affordable access to medications. They witness firsthand the challenges patients face in affording necessary medications, which can have significant implications for patient outcomes. Nurses can support patients by providing information on prescription assistance programs, advocating for transparency in drug pricing, and collaborating with interdisciplinary teams to explore cost-effective alternatives. Additionally, nurses can contribute to policy discussions and lobby for measures to address the issue of high drug prices, striving for a more equitable healthcare system.
In my nursing practice, I have advocated for patients by addressing their concerns about COVID vaccination, emphasizing the importance of vaccination in preventing severe illness and protecting vulnerable populations. I have also provided education and support to patients transitioning to telemedicine, ensuring they understand how to access and navigate virtual healthcare services. Additionally, I have collaborated with healthcare providers and policymakers to discuss the impact of prescription drug pricing on patients and advocate for more affordable options.
References:
American Nurses Association. (2015). The role of registered nurses in primary care. Retrieved from https://www.nursingworld.org/~4af19c/globalassets/docs/ana/ethics/role-of-rns-in-primary-care.pdf
Huston, C. J. (2017). The impact of emerging technology on nursing care: Warp speed ahead. The Online Journal of Issues in Nursing, 22(3), 1-6. https://doi.org/10.3912/OJIN.Vol22No03PPT42