Public health nursing in crisis.

The problems experienced in public health nursing in the United States are serious and many. The proposed solution may provide a method for change. Delivery of services will then focus on public health needs and will resist the the pressure to fit needs to available funds. Provider outreach to meet community needs will supersede primary care. The health professions will share resources rather than responsibilities. Public health nursing will focus on disease prevention and control rather than on treatment, and nurse practitioners in other specialties will refer clients to public health nurses when their particular skills are needed. Thus resolution of the present crisis may result in a stronger cadre of public health nurses who are secure in their role and revitalized in their dedication to health care in the community.