This week’s readings and lecture offered information related to lobbyists and advocates. Is there a difference between being a lobbyist and an advocate? Lobbyists provide support for policy, as do advocates, so what is the difference? Most nurses consider themselves patient advocates; however a political advocate is somewhat different. In this discussion, differentiate between a lobbyist and an advocate. Be sure to discuss a political advocate rather than a bedside advocate.

Topics to include:

• Definition of a lobbyist.
• Definition of an advocate.
• Similarities and differences.
• Why are they both important?
• How does one of your selected organizations (choose one you used in your week 1 DB – What is the definition of Nursing Excellence – these organizations were discussed in the week 1 PowerPoint) lobby or advocate for health care policy?

References:

• Initial Post: Minimum of two (2) total references: one (1) from required course materials and one (1) from peer-reviewed reference.

Words Limits:

• Initial Post: Minimum 200 words excluding references (approximately one (1) page)

Textbook:

Policy and Politics in Nursing and Health Care,Elsevier Saunders, 2015, 7th edition