RJ McElroy Trust

Nursing executives are continually challenged to address a rapidly evolving health care system. Every aspect of care delivery is being scrutinized, yet the constant requirement remains assurance of high-quality, highly reliable care that is cost-effective and easily accessible. The nursing workforce remains visible in traditional roles as well as in new and innovative capacities, whereas nurse executives experience expanded realms of focus and responsibility. As health systems continue to adapt to the changing environment, the ability to leverage the role and scope of the advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) as a health care provider is emerging as an essential business and care strategy. While the APRN role is more commonly accepted in primary care, ambiguity persists in how to best use the role along the continuum of care to achieve the cost-effective solutions required in today's health care environment. Successful health care systems of today and tomorrow are those that act boldly in a strategic direction. Data-driven decision making is key to meaningful change, whether clinical or operational. The need to develop high-functioning, integrated provider teams is apparent and immediate. Nurse executives and their nursing leadership colleagues must lead with evidence in hand to create infrastructures that support true integration, optimization, and engagement of all members of the provider team to better serve our patients and communities.