A policy analysis of health care reform: implications for nurses

Since taking office, President Obama has urged Congress to move rapidly and advance a plan that is consistent with the eight principles he considers essential for improving the U.S. health care system. Three major policies associated with the current discussions surrounding health care reform--universal coverage, preventive care, and improving efficiency and quality--are analyzed. Overall, the Obama plan for health reform has the potential to improve health care access and quality for all Americans dramatically. The Obama reform holds many opportunities for nurses, especially for APRNs, FNPs, and BSNs. This is a crucial time for nurses to become active participants in our health care reform. Nursing input is needed at the individual, community, and federal levels.