Key issues in building a continuum of care

The recognition of the effects of a failure to attain continuity of care is driving many of the changes in U.S. health care. This article explores the relationship of continuity of care and the broader concept of a continuum of care. Actions that advanced practice nurses, educators, and organizations can take to influence its developmental are described within the context of three issues: (1) recognition of continuity of care myths, (2) the use of financial mechanisms to promote the construction of a continuum of care, and (3) the development of continuum of care building skills of advanced practice nurses.