I. Introduction (Approx. 150 words) Hook: Start with the critical role of data in modern healthcare. Thesis Statement: Nursing informatics (NI) serves as a foundational pillar in health management and policy by transforming clinical data into actionable insights, which directly enhances population health outcomes through optimized care coordination, evidence-based decision-making, and the advancement of equitable, efficient healthcare systems. Briefly define NI: "The specialty that integrates nursing science with multiple information management and analytical sciences to identify, define, manage, and communicate data, information, knowledge, and wisdom in nursing practice" (ANA, 2015). Mention AACN Essential V: Emphasize its focus on using technology/informatics to deliver safe, effective, patient-centered care and improve health outcomes. Roadmap: State the paper will explore NI's role in health management/policy, its major factors impacting population health, and its broader impact on healthcare systems. II. Nursing Informatics in Health Management and Policy (Approx. 300 words) A. Data-Driven Management Decisions: How NI Contributes: NI professionals manage EHR data to track nurse-sensitive indicators (e.g., falls, pressure ulcers, medication errors), staffing effectiveness, resource utilization, and patient flow. Impact on Management: Provides evidence for staffing models, budget allocation, quality improvement initiatives, and operational efficiency (e.g., reducin