Outgoing President’s Message 2007

Lynne Jones RN, RCIS, FSICP

First and foremost I must say it has been a privilege to represent you as the President of  the SICP.  It is with mixed feelings that I write my last message to you.  I am a little sad that my two years have gone by so fast, but very excited about the impact and energy that Todd Chitwood brings to the position. 

The last two years have been a whirlwind of activity and growth for our Society.  The progress we have made is incredible.  Collaboration with Industry has been a big focus.  We have built relationships that will continue to support our mission and goals.

The chapter initiative will continue to build a strong foundation for our profession.  As more chapters form, more people will get involved and influence how the invasive cardiovascular professional will practice.

As I thought about what my last President’s message would be, I remembered an essay I wrote several years ago about professionalism in the face of a changing environment.  As I read it, I realized that we are facing yet another big change in healthcare.  Back then, the changes were managed care and hospital mergers creating huge corporations.  Today, it is more regulatory involvement (National Patient Safety Goals, Compliance, etc.!) and the division of roles in our environment. It is our responsibility to keep up with the changes, while making sure that we keep quality care and excellent patient outcomes as our primary focus. 

Change is always an opportunity for growth.  We are in the perfect position to impact how our profession will evolve to keep up with these changes.  By effectively advancing ourselves to a position that has the ability to make a difference, we will shape our own future.  As our profession continues to advance, each of us will determine how we will respond to increasing demands.   

As a strong voice, we have the ability to set the standards. By positioning ourselves as the authority in our own unique environment, we will maintain what we have evolved into, an integrated and cohesive mix of professionals that each contribute their expertise in the care of the patient undergoing invasive procedures. 

As procedures evolve to less invasive techniques, we will find ourselves collaborating with even more disciplines.  This is already happening with the emergence of hybrid rooms in operating and radiology departments.  Again, this is an opportunity for growth.  We must remember that, as the experts in our field, we are compelled to set the standards for patient care. 

I admire those of you who have chosen to get involved with your society during the last few years.  Your success in building chapters prove there is a need for educational opportunities as well as networking and fellowship.  You are impacting not only patients and peers, but your communities. 

So….my challenge to you is to continue to take care of patients and each other.  Get involved either locally or nationally with your society.  The SICP exists because of you!