Letter from President Jerilyn Allen,
RN, ScD, FAAN, FPCNA
It is indeed an honor to serve as President of the Preventive Cardiovascular Nurses Association (PCNA) for 2010-2011. PCNA is a vibrant organization of gifted practitioners, talented leaders and dedicated staff. In these difficult economic times and era of healthcare reform, PCNA stands front and center as the premiere nursing organization dedicated to preventing cardiovascular disease through assessing risk, facilitating lifestyle changes, and guiding individuals to achieve treatment goals.
What is on the horizon for PCNA? As the new president, I would like to share several of our goals for the next year. A priority is increasing involvement of the membership in all activities of the organization. I am pleased to point out that we have numerous members who have joined our active committees, including the Membership Committee, Abstract Review Committee, Continuing Education Committee, and the Communications Committee. In addition, we have several members developing exciting projects for the education of nurses and our patients, one of the hallmarks of our organization. This was the first year we invited abstract submitters to present their work as oral presentations at the annual symposium, a wonderful addition to the scientific program. PCNA Chapter leaders have been busy promoting educational programs and increasing membership within the regional chapters. Thank you to all who continue to make us so successful.
A related priority is the development of a mentorship program to help prepare the future nurse leaders of cardiovascular prevention. Several activities at the national meeting continue to contribute to leadership development. We anticipate expanding our initiatives in this area throughout the year so stay tuned for future opportunities to get involved.
As we strive to be the “go-to” organization for professionals and the public who are searching for CVD prevention information and tools, we anticipate an increased focus on patient products. The intention is to empower our patients for positive health behaviors and effective self-management.
Members of the Board are meeting with legislative officials and testifying in Washington, DC to lobby for CVD prevention. We hope these advocacy efforts will make a contribution to having prevention recognized by policy makers as the most cost-effective means to address CVD, the number one killer of men and women in the USA.
International outreach is a significant goal in our ten-year strategic plan as we work to increase global recognition of PCNA and the leading role nurses play in prevention. Our pocket guide has been distributed in Kenya and members of the Board have represented us at international meetings in Ireland, Argentina, Germany, Spain, Chile, Hong Kong, and Canada. We are delighted to welcome increasing numbers of international attendees at our annual meetings.
These are challenging but exciting times in healthcare. I am convinced that PCNA will be as vibrant and strong as ever in the coming year. Thank you for the opportunity to lead as we continue our journey together.