Development of a rural oncology nursing conference: proposal through implementation.

PURPOSE/OBJECTIVES: To discuss the funding/implementation process of a continuing nursing education program focusing on cancer care delivery in the rural setting.

DATA SOURCES

Books, published articles, and personal experience.

DATA SYNTHESIS

Producing a rural oncology conference required a needs assessment identification of funding sources, collaboration of a variety of stakeholders, dedicated implementation, and outcome evaluation.

CONCLUSIONS

The strategies for designing and funding this rural program were successful. The conference was received enthusiastically by rural homecare, nursing home, and administrative nurses. More continuing education of rural nurses is needed because many patients with cancer ore returning home sooner and remaining home longer.

IMPLICATIONS FOR NURSING PRACTICE

Individual Oncology Nursing Society chapters can make a difference in the nursing care of their communities and can obtain financial support for their projects. Urban nurses can mentor and network with their rural colleagues by offering their services proactively. With the changing complexion of healthcare funding, it is imperative that nurses at all levels learn to access the funding sources available for the enhancement of community nursing services.