Nursing in a service line organization

Abstract

Thoreau has said that change's sake is not progress. Clarity of purpose and desired outcomes; the provision of sufficient time to educate and ensure cooperation; refocusing and reanalysis; support for staff in leadership positions; and high visibility throughout the organization on the part of top level management are mandatory in bringing about a radical change such as our organization has experienced. The Alta Bates-Herrick Hospital has a rich tradition of high quality care in Berkeley and, indeed, throughout Northern California. The founders of both campuses, Alta Bates, RN, and Leroy Herrick, MD, established a heritage of concern, compassion, and caring. Streamlining the structure of the hospital to ensure fiscal viability, efficiency, and the ability to respond quickly to challenges coupled with the ongoing internal efforts to articulate and retain high quality care will continue to serve the people of our community well.