Reply to discussion and include 2 references In recent years, the escalating cos

Reply to discussion and include 2 references In recent years, the escalating cost of prescription medications has become a critical concern for many Americans. I identified a proposed health policy from Congress.gov, the “Affordable Medications Act,” introduced within the past five years, to regulate drug prices and make them more accessible to the general population (Congress.gov, n.d.). While in its infancy, this policy draws on the Social Determinants of Health framework, recognizing that the cost of medication can significantly impact a person’s overall health and well-being, especially among marginalized communities (Milstead & Short, 2019). Nurses, both RNs and APRNs, have significant opportunities to influence this policy’s direction by actively participating in its formation, advocating for its passage, and ensuring its proper implementation. Given our unique position at the frontline of patient care, we understand firsthand the dire consequences that unaffordable medications can have on our patients. However, challenges such as lack of knowledge about the policy-making process, perceived lack of influence, and limited time can deter nurses from actively engaging in policymaking (Milstead & Short, 2019). Strategies to overcome these challenges include comprehensive policy advocacy training, collaboration with interprofessional teams to leverage collective expertise (Chapter 9), and leveraging technology, especially EHRs, to gather evidence and data that can support policy proposals (Chapter 8). Furthermore, the American Nurses Association (ANA) offers numerous resources for nurse advocacy, which can be instrumental in communicating and advocating for policy-making opportunities (ANA, n.d.). In the implementation phase, nurses can play pivotal roles in designing, supporting, and executing healthcare programs related to this policy, ensuring that the intended beneficiaries reap its benefits (CDC, n.d.). Collaborating closely with other healthcare professionals will also be key in successfully implementing such policies (Chapter 9).