Creating Change Through Advocacy
Directions: Identify a problem or concern in your state, community, or organization that has the capacity to be advocated through
legislation. Research the issue and complete the sections below. Examples of problems relevant to nursing include, but are not limited
to title "nurse" protection, sharps injury prevention, nursing shortage, nurse well-being, and valuation of nursing services.
Learner's Name: Pooja Thapa
Instructor's Name: Shana Shapiro
Due Date: 06/22/2025
Problem
In 150–250 words, describe the problem or concern, who is affected, and the current ramifications. Explain the consequences if the
problem or concern continues.
Snohomish County, Washington, faces notable public health issues, mainly obesity, high blood pressure, and diabetes. Data from
Geostat shows that 23% of adults are affected by obesity, 28.1% by high blood pressure, and 7.8% by diabetes (Health concerns in
Lynnwood, Washington - geostat.org). Although these rates are slightly better than state and national averages, they remain
, significant concerns. These chronic illnesses are leading causes of preventable hospital stays, long-term disability, and increased
healthcare costs. They also disproportionately impact uninsured populations and communities with diverse socioeconomic and
cultural backgrounds. This inequality worsens health disparities and diminishes the overall quality of life for the affected groups.
Tackling these challenges requires a coordinated public health strategy that promotes healthy lifestyles, enhances access to
healthcare, and emphasizes prevention through education, community involvement, and policies aimed at creating healthier
environments for all residents.
Idea for Addressing Solution
In 150–250 words, outline your idea for addressing the problem or concern and justify why legislation is the best course for
advocacy.
Solutions for reducing these chronic diseases include improving access to nutritious food through grocery and farmer's
market food cards, conducting public health awareness initiatives and workshops, launching campaigns to encourage healthy home-
cooked meals, and limiting the consumption of unhealthy options like fast food, smoking, and alcohol, and promoting physical
activity with free fitness training and access to exercise equipment in parks. In order to utilize these plans sec, ensure sustainable
funding and vital regulatory enforcement, and improve infrastructure such as fitness centers, legislative advocacy is significant.
Nurses, public health professionals, and community organizations are already driving these efforts, making legislative change both
2
Directions: Identify a problem or concern in your state, community, or organization that has the capacity to be advocated through
legislation. Research the issue and complete the sections below. Examples of problems relevant to nursing include, but are not limited
to title "nurse" protection, sharps injury prevention, nursing shortage, nurse well-being, and valuation of nursing services.
Learner's Name: Pooja Thapa
Instructor's Name: Shana Shapiro
Due Date: 06/22/2025
Problem
In 150–250 words, describe the problem or concern, who is affected, and the current ramifications. Explain the consequences if the
problem or concern continues.
Snohomish County, Washington, faces notable public health issues, mainly obesity, high blood pressure, and diabetes. Data from
Geostat shows that 23% of adults are affected by obesity, 28.1% by high blood pressure, and 7.8% by diabetes (Health concerns in
Lynnwood, Washington - geostat.org). Although these rates are slightly better than state and national averages, they remain
, significant concerns. These chronic illnesses are leading causes of preventable hospital stays, long-term disability, and increased
healthcare costs. They also disproportionately impact uninsured populations and communities with diverse socioeconomic and
cultural backgrounds. This inequality worsens health disparities and diminishes the overall quality of life for the affected groups.
Tackling these challenges requires a coordinated public health strategy that promotes healthy lifestyles, enhances access to
healthcare, and emphasizes prevention through education, community involvement, and policies aimed at creating healthier
environments for all residents.
Idea for Addressing Solution
In 150–250 words, outline your idea for addressing the problem or concern and justify why legislation is the best course for
advocacy.
Solutions for reducing these chronic diseases include improving access to nutritious food through grocery and farmer's
market food cards, conducting public health awareness initiatives and workshops, launching campaigns to encourage healthy home-
cooked meals, and limiting the consumption of unhealthy options like fast food, smoking, and alcohol, and promoting physical
activity with free fitness training and access to exercise equipment in parks. In order to utilize these plans sec, ensure sustainable
funding and vital regulatory enforcement, and improve infrastructure such as fitness centers, legislative advocacy is significant.
Nurses, public health professionals, and community organizations are already driving these efforts, making legislative change both
2
