California Action Coalition (CA AC) Story
The power of a single voice for nurses was strengthened by adding the California Action Coalition (CA AC) as a key initiative within HealthImpact. The CA AC was launched in late 2011 shortly after the release of the landmark Institute of Medicine report, The Future of Nursing: Leading Change, Advancing Health. Now nearly five years later, the CA AC is partnering with HealthImpact in order to increase both groups’ sustainability and carry out the common goal of positively influencing how health care is delivered in the state.
Mary Dickow, Statewide Director for the CA AC, recently spoke about the importance of partnerships. “We are at a very exciting time in the growth of the Action Coalition and the relationship with HealthImpact significantly increases our potential to ensure that all Californians have access to high-quality care provided by nurses.” She went on to say that the CA AC will continue to focus on the report recommendations associated with education, leadership and practice. “There has been considerable progress to date with academic progression, developing future nurse leaders, and working to ensure all nurse practice to the full extent of their education and training.” Mary is quick to point out that the success of the CA AC is due to the tireless service of the many volunteers who make up the workgroups and push for necessary changes in a state as large and diverse as California.
As the CA AC develops new strategies and goals for advancing the Future of Nursing recommendations, it is clear that connections provided by HealthImpact will further position the CA AC role in improving the health of Californians.
The CA AC is one of 51 Action Coalitions across the nation focused on ensuring that all Americans have access to care with nurses contributing to the full extent of their capabilities. The Action Coalitions are coordinated through the Center to Champion Nursing in America, an initiative of AARP, the AARP Foundation and the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation.