Policy Watch: Education and Workforce Legislation and Mental Healthcare

AACN Advocates for Nursing Education and Workforce Priorities

On October 2, AACN sent a letter to Senator Ron Wyden (D-OR), the Ranking Member of the Senate Finance Committee, outlining key legislative proposals within the Committee’s jurisdiction that would support nursing education and workforce development. This includes advocating for the creation of a Graduate Nursing Education (GNE) program, and passing both the PRECEPT Nurses Act (S.131) and the Nurse Corps Tax Parity Act (S.1548).

Request for Information (RFI) on Proposed Changes to NIH Peer Review

NIH is seeking public input on proposed changes to the reporting of peer-review outcomes. AACN invites members to submit feedback on how these proposed changes could affect the NIH peer review process and funding decisions. Comments must be submitted to NIH by Tuesday, October 13.

Advancing Mental Health Care Delivery: Innovation, Integration, and Technology

On September 30, the National Institute for Health Care Management (NIHCM) Foundation hosted a webinar, Advancing Mental Health Care Delivery: Innovation, Integration, and Technology. This webinar explored the growing need for mental health care in the U.S. and strategies to expand access and improve outcomes. Speakers discussed current trends and barriers to care, Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan’s use of Collaborative Care models and integrated mental health support, and how digital and virtual tools can strengthen care delivery and connect more people to timely support. Click here to watch the full recording.

In Case You Missed It: Reintroduction of the Educating Future Nurses Act

The Educating Future Nurses Act (H.R.10410) was reintroduced by House Nursing Caucus Vice Co-Chair and nurse, Representative Lauren Underwood (D-IL-14), along with Nursing Caucus Vice Co-Chair and nurse, Representative Jen Kiggans (R-VA-02), and Nursing Caucus Co-Chair, Representative Suzanne Bonamici (D-OR-01). This bipartisan bill would establish a permanent national Graduate Nurse Education program to support partnerships between nursing schools, hospitals, and health systems. Click here to read the press release.

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