Spreading the Word

This week each of our group members contacted either a key stakeholder or legislator and invited them to follow our blog discussions. Our group is educating others in order to raise awareness on the need for capitation grants.

Laurie Dohnalek, director of oncology, aphaeresis, dialysis, and perinatal services at Georgetown University Hospital was contacted because she is a member of the Capitol Gang, more specifically Oncology Nursing Society Advocacy Group. She has a powerful voice at Georgetown University Hospital and has sent our blog information to the Legislative Nursing Council of Georgetown University Hospitals and other Nurse Leaders. Senator Warner and Webb were contacted because of his legislative power and knowledge. He is a direct link to the government and a part of the decision making process, should the bill get to the floor he will be Virginia’s representative to vote in favor of it.

Professor O’Neill is a nursing professor at James Madison University and is probably aware of the growing problem of nursing shortages. She would directly be affected by the passing of the bill through salary and nursing program changes. Dr. Mast is the department head of nursing at James Madison University and we find it important to gain the support of our own educators and supervisors. We also want to know her opinion and if she has any suggestions. Katie Finley, a Pediatric nurse at INOVA Fairfax Hospital has experienced the negative effects of the nursing shortage, which is due in large part to the lack of nursing faculty.

Currently, there are no new updates to the bill or within health care relating to our bill. It is still in the first step of the legislative process where it was referred to the House Committee on Energy and Commerce on April 22, 2009. The House Committee is currently deliberating, investigating, and revising before they go to general debate. For the most recent updates, go to http://www.govtrack.us/congress./bill.xpd?bill=h111-2043.