How Healthcare Is Moving Swiftly Into Uncharted Territory

Healthcare is moving swiftly into uncharted territory. New regulations, changes in Medicare and Medicaid, and even reimbursement issues are all on the forefront of the twenty-first century healthcare. Heated battles are ongoing in the political arena, however it is the American patient that will feel its effects, changes, and unfortunately undergo its transition. With the ever increasing needs related to patient care, such as living longer, more complex diseases, and rapid advancement in technology, a shift in education is a must. There is a profound difference it the handling of the healthcare system. Different viewpoints has caused a poor delivery system in patient care. As nurse leaders, leading the way will be instrumental in†¦show more content†¦The patient protection and affordable care act, which attempts to reform healthcare will serve as a likely opportunity for advanced practice nurses to contribute expressively to the delivery of healthcare. While some phy sicians are battling to restrict advance practice nurses, reformers on the other hand are working just as diligently to support the advance practice role and movement. Rebecca Patton, president of the American Nursing Association, states â€Å"In some situations it can be a turf battle† (Pickert, 2009). The use of word â€Å"doctor† has caused quite a stir amongst primary care physicians. Most feel it is confusing to say the least, but advance practice nurses are fully aware of the level of education one has acquired. Educating patients to know the difference does not oppose a conflict. A New Health Care System for the 21st Century According to the Institute of Medicine, we are faced with such rapid changes, the nation’s health care delivery system has fallen short in its ability to translate knowledge into practice and to apply new technology safely and appropriately (IOM, 2001). As an advanced practice nurse, leading and teaching shall be vital to the delivery system outcomes. The Institute of Medicine has identified six areas of needed improvement such as safe care, effective care, patient-centered care, timely services, efficient care, and