Outcomes

These are modified for different programmes in different regions, but we would expect as minimal outcomes an enhanced ability to:

• Articulate the value of nursing to health officials and others.
• Be effective contributors to quality health care.
• Contribute effectively to public sector and health reform in their country.
• Influence policy.
• Understand political impacts on the health system.
• Be visionary and strategic thinkers and planners.
• Manage change effectively.
• Prepare other nurses for top management roles in nursing and health services.
• Develop, implement and evaluate projects.
• Mentor others effectively.
• Participate in relevant networks.

Benefits

The beneficiaries of better preparation of nurses for these roles are seen to be:

• LFC Benefits Public – better public health care and improved access to health services.
• Governments – more effective management of health services.
• Policy makers and managers – participation of well prepared nurse leaders, leading to better policy development.
• Health care teams – nurses with effective skills participating in and managing interdisciplinary teams.
• Other nurses – training, mentoring and other leadership development activities of programme participants.
• Participants themselves – improved skills and behaviours. In particular, they become motivated towards achievement in an environment of change. Increased involvement in health reform at national and local levels and improved capacity in project planning and implementation are among the tangible results.