As the pace of technological and scientific developments accelerates, one of our greatest challenges will be to maintain and advance our technical competence. We need to continually explore efficient, flexible methods to assist employees with enhancing their technical skills. The quest to keep pace with the latest technological developments cannot overshadow other ongoing efforts to enhance professional development. One initiative recently implemented to promote this area is the creation of the Expertise in Clinical Practice Award which provides funding for conference and seminar attendance. A committee is working closely with Ives Erickson to continue to develop these approaches.
Managers provide flexibility in scheduling when possible to promote class attendance.
Technical excellence and a more complete understanding of the art and science of professional practice are, and will continue to be, critical as new models of patient-care delivery evolve. We are currently implementing a new patient-care delivery model with the support of a new Education Center. This center, which has various training sites, is preparing employees, through skill-building, to practice within the model. As the healthcare environment evolves and changes, professional development activities will take on increasing importance in assuring that we provide quality care, attract and retain excellent practitioners, and promote professional satisfaction.