Name
Chamberlain University
NR-553: Global Health
Prof. Name
Date
Arabi, Rafii, Cheraghi, and Ghiyasvandian (2014) emphasized that health systems are continuously evolving, necessitating nurses to adapt and take active roles in shaping these changes. Nurses are not only responsible for implementing health policies but also for influencing their formulation. Burke (2016) reinforces this notion, asserting that nurses hold the responsibility of shaping both present and future healthcare delivery systems. Active participation in policy development allows nurses to advocate for enhanced healthcare structures and improved patient outcomes.
The Global Health Council (GHC), established in 1972, is an international non-governmental organization dedicated to promoting global health priorities. Its mission focuses on strengthening health and well-being globally by connecting advocates, policymakers, and stakeholders to address critical health challenges (Global Health Council, n.d.). With members from over 150 countries, GHC serves as a collaborative platform that unites voices from various fields such as research, healthcare delivery, and evaluation to address pressing global health concerns.
Nurses play a vital role in advancing the mission of the GHC. Their close interaction with patients, families, and communities allows them to identify emerging health concerns and trends. By engaging in awareness campaigns, implementing evidence-based interventions, and advocating for health reforms, nurses can significantly influence global health agendas. Furthermore, through their involvement in policymaking and leadership, nurses contribute to population health improvement, cost reduction, and sustainable healthcare solutions.
Table 1
Nurses’ Contribution to Global Health through GHC
| Contribution Area | Description |
|---|---|
| Awareness & Advocacy | Raising awareness about health concerns among policymakers and stakeholders. |
| Evidence-Based Interventions | Offering research-driven and clinically informed healthcare solutions. |
| Cost Reduction Strategies | Implementing innovative approaches to minimize healthcare expenditures. |
| Population Health Improvement | Promoting preventive care and strengthening community health programs. |
| Collaborative Leadership | Partnering with global organizations to influence health policy and advocacy. |
Question: Nurses have a great role in promoting the mission of GHC. Please share your thoughts on how we can get nurses’ work recognized on the world stage.
Dr. Fildes and classmates, the recognition of nurses’ contributions on the world stage can be achieved through the establishment of sustainable academic, research, and policy frameworks. Developing global health nursing programs, promoting interdisciplinary research, and building partnerships with governments and NGOs are crucial strategies (Gimbel, Kohler, Mitchell, & Emami, 2017).
Nurse scientists bring unique frontline insights that foster innovative approaches to healthcare challenges. By publishing in peer-reviewed journals, presenting at international conferences, and engaging in cross-disciplinary collaboration, nurses can enhance their global visibility and influence. Political participation in international policymaking also enables nurses to advocate for meaningful healthcare reforms.
Furthermore, representation in leadership positions across nonprofit organizations, global health boards, and philanthropic sectors strengthens the visibility and credibility of nursing contributions. As emphasized by the Institute of Medicine (2011), sustainable partnerships with governments, private entities, and civil society organizations are essential for achieving equitable and patient-centered healthcare. Through these efforts, nurses can secure global recognition for their advocacy, leadership, and professional excellence.
Gomez and Ruger (2015) observed that although governments aim to create independent health policies, international organizations frequently influence these policies to achieve broader health goals. In many cases, national governments integrate such international standards into their domestic health frameworks.
Leslie, Faina, and classmates, the engagement of diverse stakeholders in global health policymaking is increasingly significant. However, governments often encounter obstacles such as resource constraints, conflicting agendas, and insufficient expertise, which limit the effective implementation of policies. In such contexts, NGOs shift from purely advocacy roles to oversight functions, ensuring accountability and adherence to agreed commitments (Tortajada, 2016).
Given that no single sector—governmental, private, or nonprofit—can single-handedly resolve global health challenges, collaboration among these sectors is imperative. NGOs, with their ability to document ground realities and advocate for marginalized populations, play an essential role in advancing evidence-based, equitable healthcare initiatives. Their collective efforts with other stakeholders strengthen the implementation and impact of global health programs.
Arabi, A., Rafii, F., Cheraghi, M. A., & Ghiyasvandian, S. (2014). Nurses’ policy influence: A concept analysis. Iranian Journal of Nursing and Midwifery Research, 19(3), 315.
Burke, S. (2016). Influence through policy: Nurses have a unique role. Reflections on Nursing Leadership. Retrieved from https://www.reflectionsonnursingleadership.org/commentary/morecommentary/Vol42_2_nurses-have-a-unique-role
Global Health Council. (n.d.). About Us. Retrieved from http://globalhealth.org/aboutus/mission-and-vision/
Gimbel, S., Kohler, P., Mitchell, P., & Emami, A. (2017). Creating academic structures to promote nursing’s role in global health policy. International Nursing Review, 64(1), 117–125. https://doi.org/10.1111/inr.12301
Institute of Medicine (US), Committee on the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation Initiative on the Future of Nursing. (2011). The future of nursing: Leading change, advancing health. Washington, DC: National Academies Press.
Gomez, E. J., & Ruger, J. P. (2015). Global and domestic policy responses to healthcare: A comparative analysis. Health Policy and Planning, 30(3), 285–297. https://doi.org/10.1093/heapol/czu013
Tortajada, C. (2016). Nongovernmental organizations and influence on global public policy. Asia & The Pacific Policy Studies, 3(2), 266–274. https://doi.org/10.1002/app5.134
