Dear Members and Potential Members,

[2 minute read]

The month of August from a membership perspective is a time to look and reflect upon the benefits of membership in the Hospice & Palliative Nurses Association (HPNA). You will see a series of brief reads(2-3mins) that are meant to both reinforce and build knowledge of the benefits of affiliating with HPNA both as a local and national member.

I encourage you to evaluate your current membership status as either a non-member, local or national member. Members are needed and valued at both levels of the organization. Never has it been more important to come together to represent our specialties as nurses, and to also contribute to the overall good of the nursing profession through membership in the American Nurses Association (ANA) on a broader perspective and in HPNA through a specialty perspective.

The reality of a “Tsunami” of elders aging is now starting with unprecedented numbers of our population over the age of 65. Membership in HPNA is a synergistic, time effective way that we can demonstrate our “positive empowerment” and engage in professional development activities as Palliative and Hospice nurses and team members. Advocacy is a vital part of our impact as a Professional Nursing organization. Advocacy is valuable both as a personal initiative at the side of the patients we serve, as well as our legislative and community advocacy as  professional palliative and hospice nurses. HPNA advocacy efforts allow us to maximize our individual efforts for positive impact and effectiveness on the national healthcare front. 

One to two times a week for the remainder of August, you will receive brief reads meant to either remind or inform you of the rationale, reasons, and benefits of professional affiliation with HPNA.

These messages allow for comments, and I look forward to receiving any questions you have as well as both positive and constructive feedback. Together we learn and grow.

Non-members, please note: The Nursing Network is set up to allow comments from members only. If you have a question or comment to share, please email Deb Bershad at dbershad360@gmail.com I will get back with you at my earliest opportunity.