Stakeholders are groups with the power and the resources to influence policy. Identify stakeholders by anticipating likely outcomes of specific solutions (or bills) – both intended and unintended. What is the bill’s purpose? Which groups stand to gain? What unintended consequences might result if the bill (or other solution) goes into effect? What stakeholder groups would be negatively affected by these unintended consequences? Is there potential for a coalition of stakeholders?
Identify allies and opponents. Recognize that your audience/decision maker probably can’t (or won’t) act alone. Which stakeholders have taken a position on this policy issue? What are their positions? Your audience will be most interested in the positions of the “800 lb. gorillas” – the groups with the most power and influence (and money).
What major alternative strategies have stakeholders proposed as solutions to this problem? How effective would these alternative policies be in increasing access to affordable quality care with a minimum of unintended consequences?
Do the political parties have a position on this issue?