Physicians, nurses, and community hospitals: defining a niche for the 21st century.

The health care industry is currently the largest single employer monitored by the U.S. Department of Labor. Physicians, nurses, and community hospitals are challenged as never before to define their roles in this system. New competition has emerged as these traditional providers are suffering identity crises. Physicians have suffered a loss of control over the health care system, nurses have not achieved the rewards commensurate with their skills and training, and community hospitals, especially rural facilities, have suffered closures. In order to maintain the integrity of their profession, each must make a concerted effort to position themselves for the next century.