Chippewa Valley Times

Nic Burgdorf, a senior nursing student from the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire, has been actively involved in addressing rural healthcare challenges during his internship at the American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN) in Washington, D.C. His work focused on developing strategies to prevent the closure of rural hospitals across the United States.

During his internship, Burgdorf crafted a policy brief titled "Recommendations to Advance Rural Health through Title VIII," which highlighted financial instability as a significant threat to over 700 rural hospitals. His proposals included increasing Title VIII funding, expanding telehealth services, and implementing loan forgiveness programs to attract healthcare providers to underserved areas.

"Rural hospitals are more than just healthcare facilities — they are lifelines for their communities," Burgdorf stated. He emphasized that hospital closures lead to increased mortality rates and economic strain on vulnerable areas. His research revealed that local mortality rates rise by 6.7% with each rural hospital closure.

Burgdorf's efforts were driven by personal experiences with rural healthcare issues, particularly the closure of Sacred Heart Hospital in Eau Claire. His background in nursing and public health positioned him well for advocating for healthcare reforms.

His time in Washington provided him with opportunities to engage directly with policymakers and attend legislative briefings. "I saw firsthand how advocacy can truly move the needle on critical healthcare issues," he said.

Beyond professional growth, Burgdorf explored Washington's historical sites and cultural offerings during his stay. The experience was transformative, enhancing his understanding of integrating clinical care with policy advocacy.

Burgdorf's journey underscores the importance of nurses participating in policy discussions. "Nurses are natural advocates, whether at the bedside or in Congress," he noted.

As he looks forward to future endeavors, Burgdorf encourages fellow nursing students to venture beyond traditional roles and explore health policy avenues. "We need more nurses advocating for the changes we know will improve patient outcomes," he urged.

His work not only supports rural communities but also sets an example for future leaders at UW-Eau Claire College of Nursing.