Mapping change in health care: pathways for nursing.

Health care is changing. Economic, political, social, environmental, and cultural factors all influence the population's need for health care and the delivery of health services. Emphasis is placed on providing quality services at the lowest possible costs, leading to a variety of alternatives to hospital care. This changing health care scene presents both opportunity and challenge for the health care professional. Nursing, in particular, is in a unique position and can play a pivotal role in all health care reform initiatives.