A Model for Policy Reforms to Remove Barriers in Nursing Licensure Applications

Engaging nurses with lived experience in mental health, substance use, and suicide is critical for meaningful policy reform that benefits both the nursing workforce and the communities they serve. Informed by lived experiences, barriers such as invasive licensure application questions, public disclosure of protected health information (PHI) during disciplinary proceedings, and limitations in Alternative to Discipline (ATD) programs were elevated. This article outlines a grassroots advocacy approach involving voluntary disclosure from nurses with lived experience, coalition building with the Dr. Lorna Breen Heroes' Foundation, and collaboration with state licensure bodies to drive targeted reforms. These include rephrasing mental health-related licensure questions, improving ATD program support and accessibility, and ensuring PHI confidentiality. This model is replicable and offers a compassionate path to improving nurse retention and mental health support.