A broad overview of the policy process and its application to health care. Reflecting on Canadian priorities, concerns, and obligations, health care issues are analyzed with a specific focus on policy, politics and influence. The roles of nursing and nurse leaders in health policy development, implementation, and advocacy for the health and social needs of the public are critically evaluated. A required on-site residency at the Laurentian Leadership Centre in Ottawa exposes students to the key people and process of health care policy at federal and international levels. International policy, through WHO and other agencies, is examined for its relationship to federal policy and for global perspectives on health and nursing.