ABSTRACT:
This article establishes the building blocks for organizations in developing an advocacy program and addresses how dermatology nurses and nurse practitioners can apply these principles in advancing causes that are important to dermatology and patient care. The key principles of advocacy are defined. Implementing these principles brings organizations and their stakeholders closer to the three A's-action, authority, and accountability. Keeping the organization engaged in relevant issues and the advocates engaged in follow-up achieves a spirit of action-taking and purpose for everyone concerned. Leveraging year-round advocacy work helps unify the grassroots and establish the organization's credibility and authority as the voice of the community. Communicating these achievements within the organization to key volunteers and to the public demonstrates that your organization is accountable for the public policy changes essential to your constituents.