#1
“Nursing stakeholder engagement is an essential component of human resources for health planning processes, and the gap in literature points to a need for up‐to‐date guidance to ensure nurses’ active involvement” (North et al., 2022). Being a nurse influences my role as a healthcare consumer by allowing me to discuss further healthcare options with providers. Whether this discussion is professional or personal, being a part of the healthcare system gives me a unique perspective on the processes that should be followed to treat a client appropriately. Knowing some about the U.S. Healthcare system can help me assist other stakeholders by assisting them in reviewing policies and procedures they may not understand.
“Always remember, your voice as a practicing nurse can guide policy and influence changes that may significantly impact patient safety and overall patient outcomes” (What Are the Impacts of Health Policy on Nursing?, 2024). As nurses, our voices can have the most impact on implementing new policies and procedures or modifying existing policies and procedures. As consumers and providers, we have a unique position to be involved on the frontlines of an ever-changing healthcare system.
#2
1. As a nurse, you wear at least two or more stakeholder hats; how does being a nurse influence your role as a consumer of healthcare?
Being a nurse definitely influences how I approach my own healthcare. I’m more aware of what’s going on medically, which often leads me to wait to seek care—sometimes a bit too long—because I feel like I can handle things or I’m unsure if it’s serious enough. This could be a good thing or a bad thing, but I think it’s pretty common for nurses to hold off on seeking care until it’s absolutely necessary (Mason et al., 2021). I also tend to ask a lot of questions when I do go to the doctor, which might not be something every consumer is able to do. This proactive approach can be helpful, but it also highlights the disparities in patient advocacy that exist across different populations (Mason et al., 2021).
That said, navigating the U.S. healthcare system as a consumer is tough. Insurance is expensive, confusing, and hard to understand. And, honestly, many of the benefits don’t seem worth the cost of premiums and out-of-pocket expenses. Research shows that the cost of healthcare continues to rise without corresponding improvements in care quality, which leaves many consumers feeling disillusioned (Mason et al., 2021). I know the system has its flaws, but it’s frustrating to see how many people have to choose between paying for care and other basic needs. As a nurse, I understand the importance of high-quality care, but as a consumer, I’m often left questioning if the benefits justify the costs (Mason et al., 2021).
Mason et al. (2021) highlight that healthcare providers are often more aware of the barriers patients face, like the high cost of care and insurance challenges. This awareness makes me more critical of the system as a consumer because I know firsthand how these issues limit access to care for many people. The rising cost of care and insurance, along with inequities in access, are ongoing problems that affect millions of Americans (Mason et al., 2021).
As both a nurse and a consumer, I can appreciate the hard work that goes into healthcare, but the system itself is hard to navigate and too expensive for most people. The lack of accessibility and value for the cost is something that definitely stands out to me. Moving forward, we need a more transparent and equitable system that addresses both the needs of consumers and the challenges providers face (Mason et al., 2021).
2. How does your knowledge of the U.S. health care system impact how you can help other stakeholders?
As a nurse, I see the healthcare system from a unique perspective. I know how expensive and complicated it can be, but that understanding helps me better guide patients and families through the process. I can, point them to resources like financial assistance programs, explain highlights of insurance, and make the system feel less overwhelming (Mason et al., 2021). I also use what I know to help my colleagues understand the challenges patients face and encourage compassion.
My experience also gives me a voice in advocating for policy changes that could make healthcare more affordable and accessible. I’ve seen firsthand how the system can make it harder for people to get the care they need, and I want to be part of the solution (Mason et al., 2021).
In short, my knowledge of the U.S. healthcare system helps me be a better advocate for patients, support my colleagues, and push for broader change to make healthcare more accessible and affordable.
3. Explain the various sphere(s) of influence (consumer, provider, etc.) that would be the most impactful in advancing healthcare policy initiatives and explain why.
To push for meaningful healthcare policy change, the consumer, provider, and policy-maker spheres are all essential.
Consumers, including patients and the public, have a huge impact. When they speak out and push for change—whether it’s about costs, coverage, or access—they can force policymakers to take action. Their votes and advocacy are key to influencing healthcare reforms that directly affect their lives (Mason et al., 2021).
Healthcare providers like nurses and doctors are also crucial in shaping policy. We understand firsthand what works and what doesn’t in the system, and we can use our voices to advocate for changes. Our input helps ensure that policies are practical and focused on improving care.
Lastly, policy-makers are the ones who actually make and implement the laws. But their decisions are influenced by what consumers and providers push for. Effective policy-makers listen to both groups to create policies that truly work.
All these spheres need to work together. Consumers drive demand, providers give real-world insights, and policy-makers make the changes happen.
