Diffusing Innovative Roles Within Ontario Hospitals: Implementing the Nurse Practitioner as the Most Responsible...

Area of Science:

• Healthcare policy and innovation
• Nursing and interprofessional collaboration

Background:

• Traditionally, physicians served as the Most Responsible Provider (MRP) for hospital inpatients.
• Legislation in Ontario now permits nurse practitioners (NPs) to admit and manage inpatient care.
• Limited evidence exists on the adoption and implementation of the NP-as-MRP model in Ontario.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the reasons behind the delayed adoption of the NP-as-MRP model.
• To describe the processes involved in implementing the NP-as-MRP model in one hospital.
• To provide a framework for other institutions considering this innovative care model.

Main Methods:

• Utilized Rogers' (2003) diffusion of innovation model as a theoretical framework.
• Described implementation processes for hospital leaders, board members, and NPs.
• Focused on a case study of one hospital's adoption of the NP-as-MRP model for senior patients.

Main Results:

• The NP-as-MRP model was implemented to enhance access to care for senior patients.
• Detailed processes were identified for various stakeholders involved in the adoption.
• The study highlights the importance of thorough preparation for all affected parties.

Conclusions:

• The NP-as-MRP model presents a beneficial approach to maximizing care access.
• Successful adoption requires a detailed, stakeholder-informed implementation process.
• Further institution- and population-specific outcome evaluations are necessary for this emerging NP innovation.