The ANA Innovation Engine: Activating Innovation Through Education and Communities of Practice

Nurses are leading and developing solutions to complex problems across healthcare. Through innovation, they can drive the future creation of additional innovative healthcare ecosystems and networks. The most recent Nursing Scope and Standards of Practice articulates the value of innovation to support approaches and methodologies that foster interprofessional collaborations to transform healthcare. Nurses must develop foresight and futures thinking leadership skills and advance creative ideas to design innovative 21st century healthcare systems. This article briefly reviews the vision, mission, and strategic initiatives of the ANA Enterprise Innovation Department and describes selected programs and strategies to support nurses as they actualize innovation leadership in contemporary healthcare contexts. Many opportunities for involvement are offered virtually. We conclude with a call to action to advance individual nurse-led innovation by seeking education, developing expanded skills, and joining the movement of nurses looking to reshape health, healthcare, and the nursing profession.