Leadership Development in Long-Term Care
The long term care industry reflects the rapid changes experienced by the entire healthcare industry. A new generation of nurse leaders is desperately needed, leaders who are able to respond as we are being asked to become more cost-conscious and understand the financial realities that drive care. Nurse managers are responsible for cost centers and staff nurses have become care coordinators. All nurses must be sensitive to the costs of providing care as managed care initiatives force a focus on resource management and staff nurses are expected to be knowledgeable about cost-driven clinical pathways and variances from them. How are we to cope with this avalanche of increased responsibility?
As a great nurse, you possess a sound knowledge of patient needs but clinical skills are of even greater value when combined with an understanding of the "business" of nursing practice. Do you have an idea for a new product or service? Have you found a new piece of equipment that will facilitate better resident care? Are you responsible for staffing and scheduling on your shift? Are you comfortable delegating to and supervising unlicensed assistive personnel?
You may have already been asked by your manager or director to write up a proposal, develop a budget, or create a justification for one of your initiatives. Do you feel poorly prepared for the task? If you have not been asked yet, chances are you soon will be, especially if you seek to move up the ladder into a position of increased responsibility. These tasks are now commonplace in a health care environment in which nurses are the new care managers. These concepts and skills were never taught in our basic nursing programs and many of us are unprepared for the demands upon us. It is clear the long term care market has changed and educational preparation for leadership roles within our organizations must mirror the new demands.
What is the answer?
One solution is through formal educational programs. Preparation in integrated nursing and business programs results in a grounded understanding of the business principles that drive health care today and provides the tools for patient management that are now required at all levels of nursing. Alternatively, leadership development and business knowledge can be acquired through inservice education, attendance at conferences, participation in certificate programs, online courses, and many more.
What is the conclusion that may be reached? A broad array of educational offerings is available to enhance professional viability in an increasingly demanding work environment and in an increasingly competitive job market. So whether they ask you to do a budget or a business plan...you'll be ready!