The greying of the profession

As the 21st century begins, Americans can expect to see changes across the health care spectrum. With the drive toward market parity in the management of health care resources, it is easy to lose sight of some critical elements of the health care system that may affect the quality and delivery of care. Specifically, the work force that cares for patients in the hospital, the home, or other care settings will shift. The nursing profession will not be immune to this shift and, as nurses reach retirement age and leave the profession, their departure may leave a void that could take years to fill and profoundly alter the quality of care available.