Media Release: Ontario's top professional nursing association invites journalists to submit stories for RNAO's annual Media Awards competition

TORONTO, Dec. 5, 2012 /CNW/ - Journalists unearthed, explored and informed the public about a number of nursing, health and health-care issues throughout 2012, including: cuts to health coverage for refugees, the need to better utilize primary care nurses, and the housing crisis in Attawapiskat.

The Registered Nurses' Association of Ontario's (RNAO) annual Media Awards competition recognizes outstanding print, broadcast and online journalism that contributes to a better understanding of the nursing profession and the health-care system.

For over a decade, RNAO has honoured reporters, editors and producers who have delved into the debate and dialogue around issues such as wait times, H1N1, the impact of chronic pain, caring for seniors, and issues surrounding mental health. National and local media outlets have received RNAO awards, including: The Globe and Mail, the Ottawa Citizen, Oshawa This Week, CBC Radio, CTV News and Today's Parent.

Here's what journalists who would like to enter this year's competition, need to know: stories are judged on content, writing, creativity and their impact on the community.

Entries must have been published in Ontario newspapers, magazines, accredited online publications or broadcast on radio or television during the 2012 calendar year. Winners will receive their awards in April at the President's Banquet held during RNAO's Annual General Meeting.

Submissions must be received at RNAO's head office in Toronto no later than January 11, 2013 at 4:30 p.m. Only one entry per person/per category will be accepted.

For more information, or to fill out an entry form, please visit: www.RNAO.ca/mediaaward.

The Registered Nurses' Association of Ontario (RNAO) is the professional association representing registered nurses in Ontario. Since 1925, RNAO has advocated for healthy public policy, promoted excellence in nursing practice, increased nurses' contribution to shaping the health-care system, and influenced decisions that affect nurses and the public they serve.

For more information about RNAO, visit our website at www.rnao.ca. You can also check out our Facebook page at www.rnao.ca/facebook and follow us on Twitter at www.twitter.com/rnao.

SOURCE: Registered Nurses' Association of Ontario

For more information about the awards, please contact:
Melissa Di Costanzo, Communications Officer/Writer
Registered Nurses' Association of Ontario (RNAO)
Phone: [phone] ext. 250
[email protected]