Loretta Ford

Loretta Ford (born December 28, 1920) is an American nurse and the co-founder of the nurse practitioner (NP) model. She is widely recognized for her contributions to the field of nursing and healthcare, particularly in the development and expansion of the nurse practitioner role.

Early Life and Education[edit | edit source]

Loretta Ford was born in New York City. She pursued her nursing education at the University of Colorado, where she earned her Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) in 1946. She later obtained her Master of Public Health (MPH) and Doctor of Education (EdD) degrees from the same institution.

Career[edit | edit source]

Ford began her career as a public health nurse. Her experiences in the field highlighted the need for advanced nursing roles to address the shortage of primary care providers, especially in underserved areas. In 1965, she co-founded the first nurse practitioner program at the University of Colorado along with Henry Silver, a pediatrician. This program was designed to expand the role of nurses in providing primary care services, particularly for children and families.

Contributions to Nursing[edit | edit source]

Loretta Ford's work has had a profound impact on the nursing profession. The nurse practitioner model she helped develop has become a critical component of the healthcare system, providing high-quality, cost-effective care. Nurse practitioners are now able to diagnose and treat illnesses, prescribe medications, and manage patient care independently or in collaboration with other healthcare professionals.

Awards and Honors[edit | edit source]

Throughout her career, Ford has received numerous awards and honors for her contributions to nursing and healthcare. These include induction into the American Academy of Nursing as a Living Legend, the Florence Nightingale Medal, and honorary doctorates from several universities.

Legacy[edit | edit source]

Loretta Ford's legacy continues to influence the field of nursing and healthcare. The nurse practitioner model she co-created has been adopted worldwide, improving access to healthcare and enhancing the quality of care provided to patients.

References[edit | edit source]

External Links[edit | edit source]

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