Keywords

 

Authors

  1. Nash, Mary G. PhD, RN, FAAN, CHE
  2. Gremillion, Christine MSHA

Abstract

Healthcare is, and will continue to be, impacted by unrelenting forces transforming the healthcare system. The Internet (computers and telecommunication) makes it possible for patients to communicate globally on healthcare issues, and they are more educated about wellness, disease prevention, and medical treatments. This age of information also offers telehealth, which continues to alter the doctor-patient relationship, as well as disease management. The world as we know it changes daily. From the drastically changing demographic composition of the social order to rapidly emerging new technologies, the world of healthcare today is more expansive-an important dimension that nurse executives must recognize in order to lead their organizations in a new global marketplace. When historians chronicle the events that impacted the 21st century, they are certain to highlight the world's increasing consciousness of its interdependence. Abundant evidence will be found in literature that speaks to "globalization" when describing cultural, economic, environmental, and political issues. This unprecedented interconnectedness of healthcare across the globe will include nurse executive leadership talents.