Restructuring. An integrated approach to patient care

As scientific advances in biochemistry shaped the health-care system since World War II, the projected advances in molecular biology will drive the system of the future. With each scientific advancement or new technology there will continue to be the need for efficient organizations to provide acute care to the patients who will benefit most. Despite numerous projections about the viability of the acute care hospital as we know it and vigorous redirection of services to the patient at home in ambulatory settings or in their community, it is crucial for nurses to take a leadership role in developing long-term approaches to patient care delivery systems for the acute care hospital of the future.