Nurses have historically been a huge symbol of healthcare. Their skills and knowledge make them one of the most prominent pillars that uphold our healthcare industry. With new technology rapidly entering the industry and driving it to constantly evolve and improve, a nurse’s role is more vital than ever before.

This applies to not only the wards and operation rooms, but also behind the scenes. While patient care and administrative duties have always been some of the most important aspects of a nurse’s responsibilities, these days their insight and input are sought after for key management decisions to help mold the policies of the medical institution itself. Apart from that, nurses are also leading the charge to help shape policies and dictate the future of the medical industry in general through active social and political contributions.

There’s no denying that nurses are becoming more and more influential when it comes to the medical industry, and there’s an argument to be made that they will become one of the key driving forces for the future transformation of healthcare as well.

Why Nurses are Integral to the Future of the Healthcare Industry

1. On-field Insights into the Industry
   Nurses are in the middle of the action whether it’s in a clinic, long-term care institute or a hospital. If you ask the question, ‘What are the roles and responsibilities of a nurse?’ You will find that the answer showcases a nurse’s involvement in many, if not most aspects of the medical sphere. This diversity of environments and the singular set of responsibilities that go with each of these varied medical institutions all arm nurses to provide a unique perspective on the entire system and the industry functions. These insights can offer great value when charting the future of the medical industry in its entirety.
2. A Greater Degree of Interaction with Patients
   It’s part of a nurses’ responsibility to provide a link between the patient and their primary medical practitioner. They end up spending a lot of time with the patients through the course of their visits and don’t just form bonds with the patients, but also their family members in the process. This allows them to understand the patient’s side of the equation, and the value of this understanding cannot be understated. When planning for the coming years, this input can help people see a different perspective and undertake the process with a more holistic viewpoint.
3. Shaping the Future of Nursing in a Digitalized World
   The trajectory of the future of the medical industry as a whole, and the future of nursing in particular, both point towards increased digitalization. This is the generation that is ruled by smartphones and wireless technology. Innovations such as the Internet of Things, AI and robotics are becoming increasingly integrated into all industries, with the world of medicine being a leader among them.

   This prolific digitization brings with it some disruptions, and the role of nurses in healthcare is becoming even more pertinent to help smooth out these issues. As a figure who shares a lot of face-time with patients, nurses help to bridge the gap between the traditional and the new age of technology with skill, understanding and frequent interaction.

4. Keen Understanding of Both the Caregiver’s and the Care-Receiver’s Points of View
   As touched upon earlier, the scope of a nurses’ responsibilities span across the spectrum of patients, doctors, hospitals and diagnostics. This means they can provide valuable contributions for processes on all sides of the medical industry. Bridging the gap between the patient and the doctor, nurses are perfectly placed to help shape the future of the medical industry with valuable perceptions on the issues or shortcomings on either or both sides of the fence.
5. A Growing Vocation
   As the , the demand for registered nurses is expected to increase by 15 percent from 2016-2026. The future of nursing looks bright for anyone looking to enter this industry as a professional. This prediction will also dictate , an effort that will require collaboration between industry influencers, policymakers and nursing institutions.

At ¹ú²úÖ÷²¥ (WCU), we recognize this increasing need for nurses and offer a wide variety of nursing programs to help contribute to this need with skilled professionals who are armed to strongly and positively contribute to the field. If you are inspired to become part of this exciting medical future and believe that you have what it takes to help shape this future by pursuing a career in nursing, then WCU is an ideal place to begin your journey. Should you have any questions or queries about our programs, or the industry in general, don’t hesitate to contact us.

WCU provides career guidance and assistance but cannot guarantee employment. The views and opinions expressed are those of the individuals and do not necessarily reflect the beliefs or position of the school or of any instructor or student.