Policy Issues (Advocacy) Letter guidelines:
Upon completion of this letter, the student will:
• Analyze the current local, state or national issues that impact healthcare and/or nurses.
• Write an effective professional business letter addressing a policy defining healthcare delivery and systems of care.
• Demonstrate active involvement in the policy defining healthcare delivery and systems of care.
Directions:
1. Select a health topic issue that interests you. Look around your work place, profession, community, or for state or national legislation that affects you. Here are some other websites (you may choose others):
Florida Online Sunshine (State legislation information)
Florida Nurses Association
Florida Bills
American Nurses Association
2. The letter should be addressed to the political representative or person with responsibility for the issue being addressed (i.e. who has authority to change this matter? i.e.:
For Healthcare bills, your state district representative has authority over state legislation; and, your Florida congressman represents you in the US House of Representatives for federal/national bills. Look up the specific bill number if you write your representative – on his/her website). Other persons of authority: City Council, mayor, school district superintendents, etc.

Advocacy Letter Instructions Points Grade

1. Block letter format. Correct addresses for recipient (can make up your address if you don’t want to use it).
2. Address your letter to the person(s) with responsibility for the issue being addressed; who has the authority to change this matter? Be sure to include title, and/or position, and organization
3. In the first paragraph clearly state what you want them to do (the action), or the reason for your contact.
5 5

4. Next, in second paragraph, explain the problem in more depth. Stick to the most relevant points and avoid the use of jargon or very technical language in your explanation. (do not cite your evidence in the letter – only list on the (separate) APA reference page .
5 5

5. In your third paragraph, give the official a personal connection to the issue you are raising. Explain why this action is relevant to you, your patients, community, or profession.
5 5

6. In your final paragraph, repeat the requested action and thank your official for their time and attention to the matter you have raised in the letter.
5 5
• Four paragraphs
• Correct spelling and grammar
• APA References on a separate page
(Your APA reference page should reflect your evidence of the issue.)
5 5
Total Possible: 25 25