Assignment Prompt & Instructions
– 2 years ago
**files (1)**
– ## WK8RESPONSE2HEALTHElectedOffice.docx
**## WK8RESPONSE2HEALTHElectedOffice.docx**
Elected Office
What is the potential impact of nurses holding elected office? How might healthcare policy advocacy change if nurses are seated at the table?
For this Discussion, you will consider what it takes to run for an elected office, as well as explore what is at stake for nurses to run for these positions. You will identify nurses elected to public office, and you will consider the impact of these positions. How might learning about policy and advocacy pave the wave for a future as an elected official?
Resources
Be sure to review the Learning Resources before completing this activity.
Click the weekly resources link to access the resources.
[**WEEKLY RESOURCES**](https://waldenu.instructure.com/courses/148513/modules/items/5624108)
Learning Resources
Required Resources
[Readings](https://waldenu.instructure.com/courses/148513/pages/week-8-10-learning-resources?module_item_id=5624108)
· Dawes, D. E. (2020).
_The political determinants of health_. Johns Hopkins University Press.
· Chapter 4, “How the Game is Played: Successful Employment of the Political Determinants of Health” (pp. 78–111)
· Porche, D. J. (2023).
_Health policy: Applications for nurses and other healthcare professionals_(3rd ed.). Jones & Bartlett Learning.
· Chapter 13, “Board Governance and Policy Leadership” (pp. 185–192)
· Chapter 14, “Institutional and Organizational/ Association Policy” (pp. 193–199)
· Chapter 17, “Policy Institutes” (pp. 255–264)
· American Association of Nurse Anesthesiology. (2022).
[_Advocacy and policyLinks to an external site._](https://www.aana.com/advocacy) _._ https://www.aana.com/advocacy
· American Association of Nurse Practitioners. (2022).
[_AANP advocacy: Championing the NP role and amplifying the NP voiceLinks to an external site._](https://www.aanp.org/advocacy) _._ https://www.aanp.org/advocacy
· American Nurses Association. (2018).
[_ANA advocacy toolkitLinks to an external site._](https://rnaction.org/SitePages/toolkit.aspx) _._ https://rnaction.org/SitePages/toolkit.aspx
· American Nurses Association. (n.d.).
[_Nurses serving in congressLinks to an external site._](https://www.nursingworld.org/practice-policy/advocacy/federal/nurses-serving-in-congress/) _._ https://www.nursingworld.org/practice-policy/advocacy/federal/nurses-serving-in-congress/
· Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Office of Policy, Performance, and Evaluation. (2021).
[_Resources for writing briefs_ Links to an external site.](https://www.cdc.gov/policy/polaris/training/writing-briefs/index.html). https://www.cdc.gov/policy/polaris/training/writing-briefs/index.html
· IDRC. (n.d.).
[_How to write a policy brief_ Links to an external site.](https://idrc-crdi.ca/en/funding/resources-idrc-grantees/how-write-policy-brief). https://idrc-crdi.ca/en/funding/resources-idrc-grantees/how-write-policy-brief
· International Council of Nurses. (n.d.).
[https://www.icn.ch/Links to an external site.](https://www.icn.ch/)
· International Council of Nurses. (2022).
[_Nursing policyLinks to an external site._](https://www.icn.ch/nursing-policy) _._ https://www.icn.ch/nursing-policy
· National League for Nursing. (2022).
[_Public policyLinks to an external site._](https://www.nln.org/public-policy) _._ https://www.nln.org/public-policy
· National League for Nursing. (2022).
[_Toolkit homeLinks to an external site._](https://www.nln.org/education/teaching-resources/professional-development-programsteaching-resources/toolkits) _._ https://www.nln.org/education/teaching-resources/professional-development-programsteaching-resources/toolkits
· Open Secrets. (2021).
[_Health professionalsLinks to an external site._](https://www.opensecrets.org/industries/indus.php?ind=H01) _: Summary._ https://www.opensecrets.org/industries/indus.php?ind=H01
· Pitsker, K. (2019, November 26). How to run for local office.
[_Kiplinger_ Links to an external site.](https://www.kiplinger.com/article/business/t043-c000-s002-how-to-run-for-local-office.html). https://www.kiplinger.com/article/business/t043-c000-s002-how-to-run-for-local-office.html
·
[She Should RunLinks to an external site.](https://sheshouldrun.org/). (2020).
[https://sheshouldrun.org/Links to an external site.](https://sheshouldrun.org/) **Note:** Explore this site on the topic of “Running for Elected Office.” You will need to join (free) to access the self-quizzes and materials.
· United Nations. (n.d.). Sustainable development goals:
[_17 goals to transform our worldLinks to an external site._](https://www.un.org/sustainabledevelopment/) _._ https://www.un.org/sustainabledevelopment/
· Weakley, S., & Tarrega, M. (n.d.).
[_How to write a policy brief_ Links to an external site.](https://policyscotland.gla.ac.uk/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/TSRFWritingaPolicyBrief.pdf). https://policyscotland.gla.ac.uk/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/TSRFWritingaPolicyBrief.pdf
·
**Document:** [Global Issues Impacting Nursing](https://waldenu.instructure.com/courses/148513/files/11127209?wrap=1) [Download Global Issues Impacting Nursing](https://waldenu.instructure.com/courses/148513/files/11127209/download?download_frd=1)(PDF)
[Media](https://waldenu.instructure.com/courses/148513/pages/week-8-10-learning-resources?module_item_id=5624108)
· American Nurses Association. (2021, May 11). RNAction:
[_When nurses speak, Washington listensLinks to an external site._](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IJD60OucJn0) [Video]. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IJD60OucJn0
**Note:** The approximate length of this media piece is 1 minute.
· Parks, M., & Weiner, C. (2019, October 19).
[_How to run for office_ Links to an external site.](https://www.npr.org/2019/10/15/770332855/how-to-run-for-office) [Multimedia]. NPR. https://www.npr.org/2019/10/15/770332855/how-to-run-for-office
[Previous](https://waldenu.instructure.com/courses/148513/modules/items/5624097) [Next](https://waldenu.instructure.com/courses/148513/modules/items/5624115)
To Prepare:
· 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
[Solomon Soroibe Okwueze](https://waldenu.instructure.com/courses/148513/users/110494)
Jan 27 3:26pm| Last reply Jan 27 3:28pm
Manage Discussion by Solomon Soroibe Okwueze
Reply from Solomon Soroibe Okwueze
**What It Takes to Run for Elected Office: A Comprehensive Guide**
Running for elected office is a transformative journey that requires a blend of qualifications, resources, and dedication. Understanding the qualifications for holding political office is not only essential, but it forms the foundation of your campaign and public service aspirations.
**Basic Qualifications**
The qualifications to run for office are generally straightforward but can vary depending on the state and the specific office you're seeking. We have to know that the primary requirements typically include: Being a USA citizen, reside in the district or area you intend to represent. In most cases, you must have your primary residence in the district and live there for a specified period, which can range from a few months to several years. Different offices have different age requirements. For example, candidates for the U.S. House of Representatives must be at least 25 years old, while those running for the U.S. Senate must be at least 30. A criminal conviction may disqualify you from
running for certain offices, depending on the nature of the offense, so having no criminal record. Once a Nurse meet the basic qualifications, He or She can begin the process of applying for candidacy and preparing for your campaign.
**The Demands of Running for Office**
Running for office is a significant commitment that requires time, money, and energy. The key elements of a successful campaign: includes
**Fundraising**: As we all know that running for office can be expensive, so securing funds is critical. This involves fundraising events, individual donations, and possibly backing from political action committees (PACs).
**Party Support**: Engaging with local political parties and securing endorsements from major party contributors can provide a critical advantage. You may also
need to recruit volunteers and hire campaign staff.
**Campaign Strategy**: Developing a clear and compelling message is vital. This involves creating campaign literature, including brochures and flyers, and crafting speeches for public appearances. we need to focus on key issues that resonate with voters and highlight your strengths.
**Community Engagement**: Voter outreach is crucial. This means attending public events, participating in debates, and meeting with constituents to understand their concerns. Building relationships within the community and being visible is key to gaining support.
**Public Speaking**: As a candidate, you'll need to participate in public speaking
events, debates, and town hall meetings. Strong communication skills and the ability to engage with the public are essential to running a successful campaign.
**The Impact of Nurses in Politics**
Nurses bring a unique and invaluable perspective to the political arena. With their hands-on experience in healthcare, nurses are well-equipped to advocate for policies that directly impact patient care, nursing practice, and community health. Nurses possess qualities such as integrity, compassion, responsibility, and a deep commitment to public service—traits that make them exceptional leaders.
**Nurses in leadership positions** can shape healthcare policies, improve access
to care, and influence the way healthcare systems are designed. Nurses are also able to address critical issues such as health equity, access to mental health services, and the needs of underserved populations. By running for office, nurses have the potential to not only transform healthcare policy but also elevate the quality of care for their communities.
**Case Example: Lieutenant Governor Bethany Hall-Long**
An excellent example of a nurse who has successfully transitioned into political office is
**Dr. Bethany Hall-Long**, Delaware's current Lieutenant Governor. A registered nurse with a PhD in health policy and nursing administration, Dr. Hall-Long has dedicated her career to addressing health inequities and advocating for mental healthcare access. She served in both the Delaware House of Representatives and Senate before becoming Lieutenant Governor in 2017. Her work has focused on expanding treatment options for at-risk groups, including pregnant teens, people experiencing homelessness, and individuals struggling with mental health and substance use disorders.
Dr. Hall-Long is running for governor in the 2024 elections, and her campaign
reflects her long-standing commitment to improving healthcare access and policy in Delaware. Her example shows the powerful role that healthcare professionals, especially nurses, can play in shaping public policy.
**Conclusion**
Running for elected office is a challenging but rewarding path that requires more than just fulfilling basic qualifications. It takes a combination of strategic planning, community engagement, and a clear vision for change. Nurses, in particular, bring a unique skill set to politics, one that blends healthcare expertise with compassionate leadership. Whether you're looking to advocate for healthcare reform or champion broader social issues, political office provides a platform to make a real difference in your community.
References
General Information About Running for Public Office (n.d.).
[www.co.greene.pa.us/resources/16352Links to an external site.Links to an external site.](http://www.co.greene.pa.us/resources/16352)
Haney, B. (2022). Making a difference by servicing in public office: Why we need more nurses in politics.
_J AM Assoc Nurse Pract_, 34(8), 951-953.
[https://doi.org/10.1097/JXX.0000000000000748Links to an external site.Links to an external site.](https://doi.org/10.1097/JXX.0000000000000748)
Lieutenant Governor Bethany Hall-Long (n.d.).
[www.ltgov.delaware.gov/biography](http://www.ltgov.delaware.gov/biography)
## image1.jpeg
**## WK8RESPONSE2HEALTHElectedOffice.docx**
Elected Office
What is the potential impact of nurses holding elected office? How might healthcare policy advocacy change if nurses are seated at the table?
For this Discussion, you will consider what it takes to run for an elected office, as well as explore what is at stake for nurses to run for these positions. You will identify nurses elected to public office, and you will consider the impact of these positions. How might learning about policy and advocacy pave the wave for a future as an elected official?
Resources
Be sure to review the Learning Resources before completing this activity.
Click the weekly resources link to access the resources.
[**WEEKLY RESOURCES**](https://waldenu.instructure.com/courses/148513/modules/items/5624108)
Learning Resources
Required Resources
[Readings](https://waldenu.instructure.com/courses/148513/pages/week-8-10-learning-resources?module_item_id=5624108)
· Dawes, D. E. (2020).
_The political determinants of health_. Johns Hopkins University Press.
· Chapter 4, “How the Game is Played: Successful Employment of the Political Determinants of Health” (pp. 78–111)
· Porche, D. J. (2023).
_Health policy: Applications for nurses and other healthcare professionals_(3rd ed.). Jones & Bartlett Learning.
· Chapter 13, “Board Governance and Policy Leadership” (pp. 185–192)
· Chapter 14, “Institutional and Organizational/ Association Policy” (pp. 193–199)
· Chapter 17, “Policy Institutes” (pp. 255–264)
· American Association of Nurse Anesthesiology. (2022).
[_Advocacy and policyLinks to an external site._](https://www.aana.com/advocacy) _._ https://www.aana.com/advocacy
· American Association of Nurse Practitioners. (2022).
[_AANP advocacy: Championing the NP role and amplifying the NP voiceLinks to an external site._](https://www.aanp.org/advocacy) _._ https://www.aanp.org/advocacy
· American Nurses Association. (2018).
[_ANA advocacy toolkitLinks to an external site._](https://rnaction.org/SitePages/toolkit.aspx) _._ https://rnaction.org/SitePages/toolkit.aspx
· American Nurses Association. (n.d.).
[_Nurses serving in congressLinks to an external site._](https://www.nursingworld.org/practice-policy/advocacy/federal/nurses-serving-in-congress/) _._ https://www.nursingworld.org/practice-policy/advocacy/federal/nurses-serving-in-congress/
· Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Office of Policy, Performance, and Evaluation. (2021).
[_Resources for writing briefs_ Links to an external site.](https://www.cdc.gov/policy/polaris/training/writing-briefs/index.html). https://www.cdc.gov/policy/polaris/training/writing-briefs/index.html
· IDRC. (n.d.).
[_How to write a policy brief_ Links to an external site.](https://idrc-crdi.ca/en/funding/resources-idrc-grantees/how-write-policy-brief). https://idrc-crdi.ca/en/funding/resources-idrc-grantees/how-write-policy-brief
· International Council of Nurses. (n.d.).
[https://www.icn.ch/Links to an external site.](https://www.icn.ch/)
· International Council of Nurses. (2022).
[_Nursing policyLinks to an external site._](https://www.icn.ch/nursing-policy) _._ https://www.icn.ch/nursing-policy
· National League for Nursing. (2022).
[_Public policyLinks to an external site._](https://www.nln.org/public-policy) _._ https://www.nln.org/public-policy
· National League for Nursing. (2022).
[_Toolkit homeLinks to an external site._](https://www.nln.org/education/teaching-resources/professional-development-programsteaching-resources/toolkits) _._ https://www.nln.org/education/teaching-resources/professional-development-programsteaching-resources/toolkits
· Open Secrets. (2021).
[_Health professionalsLinks to an external site._](https://www.opensecrets.org/industries/indus.php?ind=H01) _: Summary._ https://www.opensecrets.org/industries/indus.php?ind=H01
· Pitsker, K. (2019, November 26). How to run for local office.
[_Kiplinger_ Links to an external site.](https://www.kiplinger.com/article/business/t043-c000-s002-how-to-run-for-local-office.html). https://www.kiplinger.com/article/business/t043-c000-s002-how-to-run-for-local-office.html
·
[She Should RunLinks to an external site.](https://sheshouldrun.org/). (2020).
[https://sheshouldrun.org/Links to an external site.](https://sheshouldrun.org/) **Note:** Explore this site on the topic of “Running for Elected Office.” You will need to join (free) to access the self-quizzes and materials.
· United Nations. (n.d.). Sustainable development goals:
[_17 goals to transform our worldLinks to an external site._](https://www.un.org/sustainabledevelopment/) _._ https://www.un.org/sustainabledevelopment/
· Weakley, S., & Tarrega, M. (n.d.).
[_How to write a policy brief_ Links to an external site.](https://policyscotland.gla.ac.uk/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/TSRFWritingaPolicyBrief.pdf). https://policyscotland.gla.ac.uk/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/TSRFWritingaPolicyBrief.pdf
·
**Document:** [Global Issues Impacting Nursing](https://waldenu.instructure.com/courses/148513/files/11127209?wrap=1) [Download Global Issues Impacting Nursing](https://waldenu.instructure.com/courses/148513/files/11127209/download?download_frd=1)(PDF)
[Media](https://waldenu.instructure.com/courses/148513/pages/week-8-10-learning-resources?module_item_id=5624108)
· American Nurses Association. (2021, May 11). RNAction:
[_When nurses speak, Washington listensLinks to an external site._](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IJD60OucJn0) [Video]. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IJD60OucJn0
**Note:** The approximate length of this media piece is 1 minute.
· Parks, M., & Weiner, C. (2019, October 19).
[_How to run for office_ Links to an external site.](https://www.npr.org/2019/10/15/770332855/how-to-run-for-office) [Multimedia]. NPR. https://www.npr.org/2019/10/15/770332855/how-to-run-for-office
[Previous](https://waldenu.instructure.com/courses/148513/modules/items/5624097) [Next](https://waldenu.instructure.com/courses/148513/modules/items/5624115)
To Prepare:
· 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
[Solomon Soroibe Okwueze](https://waldenu.instructure.com/courses/148513/users/110494)
Jan 27 3:26pm| Last reply Jan 27 3:28pm
Manage Discussion by Solomon Soroibe Okwueze
Reply from Solomon Soroibe Okwueze
**What It Takes to Run for Elected Office: A Comprehensive Guide**
Running for elected office is a transformative journey that requires a blend of qualifications, resources, and dedication. Understanding the qualifications for holding political office is not only essential, but it forms the foundation of your campaign and public service aspirations.
**Basic Qualifications**
The qualifications to run for office are generally straightforward but can vary depending on the state and the specific office you're seeking. We have to know that the primary requirements typically include: Being a USA citizen, reside in the district or area you intend to represent. In most cases, you must have your primary residence in the district and live there for a specified period, which can range from a few months to several years. Different offices have different age requirements. For example, candidates for the U.S. House of Representatives must be at least 25 years old, while those running for the U.S. Senate must be at least 30. A criminal conviction may disqualify you from
running for certain offices, depending on the nature of the offense, so having no criminal record. Once a Nurse meet the basic qualifications, He or She can begin the process of applying for candidacy and preparing for your campaign.
**The Demands of Running for Office**
Running for office is a significant commitment that requires time, money, and energy. The key elements of a successful campaign: includes
**Fundraising**: As we all know that running for office can be expensive, so securing funds is critical. This involves fundraising events, individual donations, and possibly backing from political action committees (PACs).
**Party Support**: Engaging with local political parties and securing endorsements from major party contributors can provide a critical advantage. You may also
need to recruit volunteers and hire campaign staff.
**Campaign Strategy**: Developing a clear and compelling message is vital. This involves creating campaign literature, including brochures and flyers, and crafting speeches for public appearances. we need to focus on key issues that resonate with voters and highlight your strengths.
**Community Engagement**: Voter outreach is crucial. This means attending public events, participating in debates, and meeting with constituents to understand their concerns. Building relationships within the community and being visible is key to gaining support.
**Public Speaking**: As a candidate, you'll need to participate in public speaking
events, debates, and town hall meetings. Strong communication skills and the ability to engage with the public are essential to running a successful campaign.
**The Impact of Nurses in Politics**
Nurses bring a unique and invaluable perspective to the political arena. With their hands-on experience in healthcare, nurses are well-equipped to advocate for policies that directly impact patient care, nursing practice, and community health. Nurses possess qualities such as integrity, compassion, responsibility, and a deep commitment to public service—traits that make them exceptional leaders.
**Nurses in leadership positions** can shape healthcare policies, improve access
to care, and influence the way healthcare systems are designed. Nurses are also able to address critical issues such as health equity, access to mental health services, and the needs of underserved populations. By running for office, nurses have the potential to not only transform healthcare policy but also elevate the quality of care for their communities.
**Case Example: Lieutenant Governor Bethany Hall-Long**
An excellent example of a nurse who has successfully transitioned into political office is
**Dr. Bethany Hall-Long**, Delaware's current Lieutenant Governor. A registered nurse with a PhD in health policy and nursing administration, Dr. Hall-Long has dedicated her career to addressing health inequities and advocating for mental healthcare access. She served in both the Delaware House of Representatives and Senate before becoming Lieutenant Governor in 2017. Her work has focused on expanding treatment options for at-risk groups, including pregnant teens, people experiencing homelessness, and individuals struggling with mental health and substance use disorders.
Dr. Hall-Long is running for governor in the 2024 elections, and her campaign
reflects her long-standing commitment to improving healthcare access and policy in Delaware. Her example shows the powerful role that healthcare professionals, especially nurses, can play in shaping public policy.
**Conclusion**
Running for elected office is a challenging but rewarding path that requires more than just fulfilling basic qualifications. It takes a combination of strategic planning, community engagement, and a clear vision for change. Nurses, in particular, bring a unique skill set to politics, one that blends healthcare expertise with compassionate leadership. Whether you're looking to advocate for healthcare reform or champion broader social issues, political office provides a platform to make a real difference in your community.
References
General Information About Running for Public Office (n.d.).
[www.co.greene.pa.us/resources/16352Links to an external site.Links to an external site.](http://www.co.greene.pa.us/resources/16352)
Haney, B. (2022). Making a difference by servicing in public office: Why we need more nurses in politics.
_J AM Assoc Nurse Pract_, 34(8), 951-953.
[https://doi.org/10.1097/JXX.0000000000000748Links to an external site.Links to an external site.](https://doi.org/10.1097/JXX.0000000000000748)
Lieutenant Governor Bethany Hall-Long (n.d.).
[www.ltgov.delaware.gov/biography](http://www.ltgov.delaware.gov/biography)
## image1.jpeg