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Advancing the nurse practitioner (NP) role in the current healthcare system is essential to provide the best patient care possible. However, some NPs may not know what they can do to help the cause. One key element is obtaining knowledge regarding current health-care policy, legislation, and practice issues.

 

To this end, the American College of Nurse Practitioners (ACNP) invites all NPs interested in cutting-edge policy and practice to the 2005 National Nurse Practitioner Summit, February 4-7, 2005 at The Mayflower Hotel in Washington, D.C. This year's theme, "Policy and Practice Issues, Which Way is the Wind Blowing?" will provide the knowledge and leadership skills to take advantage of expanding opportunities for innovations in healthcare delivery, education, and role development.

 

What to Expect

This conference offers networking activities, opportunities to connect with legislative representatives on Capitol Hill, and quality presentations on current issues to advance NPs' professional development. Scheduled presentations include, "Lobbying 101," "Malpractice Issues?Clouds on the Horizon" and "NPs and Policy: The Perfect Storm," presented by Senator Dale Bumpers (D-AR). There are also preconference workshops available on Friday, February 4, including, "Starting an Individual Practice," "Contract Negotiation/Renegotiation," and "Organizational Growing Pains." The ACNP is an approved provider of continuing education in nursing by the Virginia Nurses Association, which is accredited as an approver of continuing education by the American Nurse Credentialing Center's Commission on Accreditation.

 

On Monday, February 7, the ACNP invites all Summit attendees to a Capitol Hill Luncheon prior to visits with Congressional leaders. Contact the ACNP's office at (202) 659-2190 to find out how to invite your Congressional representative to this luncheon. After lunch, prescheduled visits with Representatives will commence. Attendees will discuss ACNP initiatives and begin or strengthen relationships. Finally, the Summit will conclude with a "Capitol Hill Debriefing and Libations" session, where attendees will have the opportunity to report on the visits with Representatives. This information and feedback will be important for the ACNP public policy team to follow in the 2005 legislative session. Wine, soft drinks, and cheese will be provided.

 

Registration and Lodging

To register for this informative and important conference, visit http://www.acnpweb.org. Full Summit registration includes all Summit sessions (Friday through Monday, including preconference workshop), all luncheons, continental breakfasts, and a syllabus of Summit materials.

 

The ACNP has selected The Mayflower Renaissance Hotel as the host of the Summit. Washington's largest luxury hotel, the Mayflower hotel is a member of Historic Hotels of America and is located just four blocks from the White House, minutes away from Smithsonian museums and national monuments, and just steps away from the city's finest restaurants and shopping. The Mayflower is also easily accessible to Washington's Metro subway lines, offering guests easy access to all points in the nation's capitol. To register by phone, call (202) 347-3000 and ask for the Nurse Practitioner Summit PassKey Group, or visit http://www.acnpweb.org. During your stay in Washington D.C., you will find several attractions for visitors. Packed with famous museums, free events, and an endless calendar of special activities, Washington offers year-round inspiring experiences. Beyond familiar sites, the city also offers casual cafes, upscale bistros, and diverse restaurants.