The American Association of Colleges of Nursing's Doctorate Essentials, particularly Essential V on Health Care Policy, prepares DNP graduates to effectively navigate and advocate in the complex health policy landscape. An academic paper focused on health care policy can showcase growth in several ways aligned with these essentials.

First, I enhance my critical analysis skills by examining health policy proposals from various perspectives, which helps me understand their implications better. My academic work serves as a platform to influence policymakers through evidence-based arguments that educate others about nursing's role in improving patient outcomes. Additionally, I advocate for the nursing profession and social justice, addressing equity and ethical issues in health care. Through analyzing the legal, political, economic, regulatory, and ethical factors that shape advanced nursing practice, I see how these elements are interconnected. Legal regulations impact nursing standards, political dynamics affect policy formation, and economic factors influence access to care.