Keywords

interprofessional education, medically uninsured, nursing students, patient advocacy, service learning, social determinants of health

 

Authors

  1. Bell, Meghan L. MPH, RN
  2. Buelow, Janet R. PhD, RN

Abstract

Nursing students need an in-depth understanding of how social determinants, such as poverty, unsafe housing, and illiteracy, impact the health of patients. The authors describe how a patient advocacy service-learning course increased students' awareness and proficiency in working with the challenges low-income, vulnerable individuals face as they attempt to improve their lives and health. Course learning objectives, essential requirements, and student reflections are presented.