NRSE 6050 – Policy and Advocacy for Improving Population Health: Course Overview

NRSE 6050 – Policy and Advocacy for Improving Population Health is a key course in the Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) program at Walden University, particularly for students pursuing nurse leadership and healthcare policy roles. This course is designed to help students understand the impact of healthcare policies and the significant role of advocacy in improving population health outcomes.

With a focus on the intersection of nursing practice, policy, and social justice, NRSE 6050 equips nursing professionals with the knowledge and skills needed to advocate for improvements in healthcare systems, influence public health policy, and drive positive changes in the health of diverse populations.

Course Overview of NRSE 6050 – Policy and Advocacy for Improving Population Health

This course introduces students to the policy development process, how healthcare policies are shaped, and the crucial role of nurses as advocates in influencing these policies to improve the health and well-being of communities. Students will explore the social determinants of health, the role of public health policies, and how advocacy can be used to address health disparities and promote health equity across different populations.

Through this course, students will develop the skills necessary to advocate for systemic changes that enhance healthcare access, quality, and outcomes for vulnerable populations. The course also highlights the critical importance of evidence-based advocacy and policy-making in addressing public health challenges.

Key Learning Outcomes and Focus Areas

Understanding Healthcare Policies and Their Impact
- The course helps students understand the healthcare policy landscape and the critical role these policies play in shaping the delivery of care and health outcomes.
- Students will explore key health policies that affect populations, such as the Affordable Care Act, Medicaid, and Medicare, as well as policy reforms at local, state, and national levels.
The Role of Advocacy in Health Policy
- Students will learn how nurses can serve as advocates for policy change to address issues such as health equity, access to care, and health disparities.
- Emphasis is placed on nurse-led advocacy efforts, the role of professional organizations, and collaboration with legislators to influence health policy.
Social Determinants of Health
- The course examines how social, economic, and environmental factors impact the health of populations. Students will learn how these determinants shape health outcomes and contribute to health disparities.
- Students will be encouraged to consider how policies can be designed to address and reduce the negative effects of these social determinants.
Evaluating the Effectiveness of Healthcare Policies
- Students will learn how to critically evaluate healthcare policies, assessing their effectiveness in improving health outcomes and addressing the needs of underserved populations.
- The course covers methods of policy analysis, including the use of data, research, and statistical tools to assess policy impacts.
Ethics and Professionalism in Advocacy
- The course emphasizes the ethical considerations involved in healthcare advocacy. Students will explore ethical dilemmas that can arise when advocating for vulnerable populations and health policy change.
- The course also highlights the importance of cultural competence and diversity in developing and implementing health policies that reflect the needs of all populations.
Building an Advocacy Strategy
- The course teaches students how to create and implement effective advocacy strategies for policy change, focusing on building relationships with policymakers, community leaders, and other healthcare stakeholders.
- Students will gain practical skills in public speaking, writing policy briefs, and leading advocacy campaigns.