Keywords

Doctor of Nursing Practice, Health Disparities, Nursing Education, Public Health Nursing

 

Authors

  1. Tipton, Nathan G.
  2. Speck, Patricia M.
  3. Bowdre, Trimika L.
  4. Connor, Pamela D.

Abstract

Abstract: Despite nurses' demonstrated expertise in the public health workforce, there has been a continued erosion of public health nursing (PHN) positions in health departments and academe. The need for a strong public health infrastructure and well-educated public health workforce remains vital in meeting PHN research challenges. In response to these needs, our college of nursing undertook a six-year Health Resources and Services Administration-funded expansion of the PHN Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) program. This article illustrates program evaluation, lessons learned, and PHN DNP graduate and workforce outcomes related to supplying culturally diverse PHN leaders, assuring quality improvement, creating sustainable partnerships, and improving poor health outcomes.