health policy nursing

[pedrocostanza]

Hi everyone,

I've been thinking about my future career in nursing. I recently obtained my RN license, and I have been more and more attracted to public health nursing, particularly anything that involves health policy. I know there are some experienced nurses in here, so I'm just wondering if anyone has ever worked or is working in a field involved with health policy?

thanks

[dishes, BSN, RN]

I have not worked in health policy, but enjoyed undergrad courses in health and social policy and in epidemiology, so can understand your interest in the field. Are you planning to pursue a masters degree in public health?

[pedrocostanza]

I`m not sure yet, does anyone here know if there`s any use in getting a master`s in public health (not nursing), when I already have an RN?

[loriangel14, RN]

To work in public health you need your Masters,especially if you want to be involved in setting health policies.

[dishes, BSN, RN]

I agree with loriangel, a masters degree is required, see the public health agency of Canada for a list of programs Public Health Practice - Public Health Agency of Canada

[loriangel14, RN]

I have a friend that is pursuing her Masters because she wants to work in public health and it's a requirement.

[pedrocostanza]

thanks a lot people. I am also wondering if any of you know anyone who is working around health policies? I'm interested in knowing how exactly nurses who work there are involved in it?

[dishes, BSN, RN]

pedro

Which province do you live in?

[pedrocostanza]

Ontario

[dishes, BSN, RN]

Quite a few policies in Ontario are developed by consulting with experts and researchers and by people lobbying the provincial and federal governments. RNAO frequently encourages their members to submit petitions to the government to influence policy.