Health care reform and implications for nursing

Abstract

This article focuses on the implications for the nursing profession and the education of nurses in the era of health care reform. With the uncertainty of health care arrangements and the cer tainty of change, nurses have an opportunity to use their unique skills to improve health out comes. The Pew Health Professions Commission recommendations for preparing health care professionals are reviewed in light of the implications they have for the nursing profession, including education and home care. Policy implications also are highlighted and educators are challenged to design new learning approaches. Key words: community-based care, health care reform, interdisciplinary, nursing education, Pew Health Professions Commission