Impact of the IOM Report on Nursing
Grand Canyon University: NRS 430V
July 27, 2012
Impact of the IOM Report on Nursing
On October 5, 2010, the Institute of Medicine (IOM), in collaboration with the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation (RWJF), released the report “The Future of Nursing: Leading Change, Advancing Health.” This detailed report explores the need of the nursing profession to evolve and prepare for the impact that will occur as a result of the health care reform and the transformation that will be seen to our complex health care system. With the recent passage of the Affordable Care Act (ACA), millions of Americans who were previously uninsured now find themselves with the opportunity to seek out and obtain the much needed medical attention that was previously denied to them. With the heightened number of individuals who are now able to receive primary care, there is concern as to whether or not there will be enough providers available to handle the massive increase in patient load. The reformed health care system now brings on new challenges and these challenges offer nurses the opportunity to practice with more freedom in order help close the gaps within our health care delivery system. The IOM committee formulated key messages that structure its recommendation for this transformation, focusing on three crucial areas including nursing practice, nursing education, and nursing leadership.
The IOM’s first key message addresses the need to transform practice and states that “Nurses should practice to the full extent of their education and training.” (Institute of Medicine, 2010) There is the need to allow nurses who have obtained the appropriate education, such as a masters or doctorate degree, also referred to as advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs) to provide primary care and not be restricted by state laws and regulations. Guidelines should be set based on their experience and competency
References: Institute of Medicine. (2010, October 5). Retrieved July 27, 2012, from The Future of Nursing: Leading Change, AdvancingHealth:http://www.iom.edu/Reports/2010/The- Future-of-Nursing-Leading Change-Advancing-Health.aspx