Discussion Points
1. Identify a problem you have encountered in school or in practice (e.g., “My patients all have dental problems and have no means of paying for dental care”).
Discuss how the diagram of the policy process (Figure 1-2) can help inform how you approach finding a solution to this problem. Reflect on which level of government might address this problem and why. Identify the stakeholders in this issue.
2. Discuss the role of research in nursing/healthcare practice as it affects health policy. What has been the focus over the past century? What is the pattern of nursing research vis-à-vis topic, methodology, and relevance? To what extent do you think the current focus on evidence-based practice has influenced research? Cite examples.
3. Trace the amount of federal funding appropriated for nursing or HCP re- search over specific year(s). Do not limit your search to federal health-related agencies; that is, investigate departments (e.g., commerce, environment,