→ Structure, tone, and research tips for influencing healthcare policy through your writing
In NURS-6050N: Policy and Advocacy for Population Health, one of your most important assignments may be the policy brief—a short, persuasive document that presents a healthcare issue and recommends a specific policy solution. As future nurse leaders, mastering this format allows you to communicate with policymakers, stakeholders, and healthcare organizations with clarity and impact.
? What Is a Policy Brief?
A policy brief is a concise, evidence-based document that:
- Defines a pressing healthcare issue
- Provides background and context
- Recommends a specific action or policy
- Is tailored to non-expert but influential readers (e.g., legislators, health administrators)
Think of it as a call to action supported by clear data and nursing expertise.
? Basic Structure of a Nursing Policy Brief
- Title
- Keep it clear, informative, and specific (e.g., “Expanding Nurse Practitioner Autonomy to Improve Rural Health Access”)
- Executive Summary (Optional for Short Briefs)
- A one-paragraph snapshot: state the problem, significance, and proposed solution.
- Introduction / Problem Statement
- What is the issue?
- Who is affected and why is it urgent?
- Use statistics and a few real-world examples.
- Background and Context
- Explain why the issue exists.
- Identify any past legislation or gaps in current policy.
- Policy Alternatives or Stakeholder Perspectives (Optional)
- Briefly note existing solutions or competing viewpoints.
- Policy Recommendation
- Be specific and actionable. For example:
“Pass legislation to grant full practice authority to NPs in all states.”
- Be specific and actionable. For example:
- Implications for Nursing and Population Health
- How will your recommendation improve health outcomes, reduce disparities, or strengthen care delivery?
- References
- Use current, peer-reviewed sources in APA format.
? Tone and Style Tips
✅ Be Clear and Concise: Avoid jargon and long-winded explanations. Aim for 2–4 pages.
✅ Use a Persuasive Tone: Your goal is to influence, not just inform. Frame the issue in terms of urgency and benefit.
✅ Write for Policymakers: Assume your audience is busy and may not have a healthcare background.
✅ Use Headings and Bullet Points: Break up text for easier reading.
✅ Stick to the Facts: Support your arguments with solid evidence, not emotion.
? Research Tips for a Nursing Policy Brief
- Start with the Walden Library: Use databases like CINAHL, PubMed, and ProQuest for evidence-based articles.
- Check Government and Organizational Websites: CDC, WHO, ANA, and Kaiser Family Foundation often publish relevant data and reports.
- Use Up-to-Date Sources: Aim for materials published in the last 5 years unless citing landmark studies or legislation.
- Include Nursing Perspectives: Reference studies and position statements from nursing associations.
? Pro Tip: Link Your Brief to the Social Determinants of Health (SDOH)
Framing your policy issue in terms of SDOH (e.g., income, education, environment) demonstrates your understanding of population health, a core theme in NURS-6050N.
?️ Example Policy Topics for NURS-6050N
- Addressing maternal mortality in underserved communities
- Expanding Medicaid in non-expansion states
- Combatting the nursing workforce shortage through education incentives
- Supporting mental health services via telehealth legislation
- Promoting nurse-led models in chronic disease management
✅ Checklist Before You Submit
- Is the issue clearly defined and well-supported?
- Is your recommendation specific and actionable?
- Have you included recent, peer-reviewed sources?
- Is the tone professional yet persuasive?
- Is your formatting consistent with APA standards?
? Final Thought
Writing a policy brief in NURS-6050N is more than an assignment—it's real-world preparation for being a voice for change in healthcare. As a nurse, your insights and advocacy matter. With strong evidence, clarity, and purpose, your policy brief can make an impact far beyond the classroom.