Development of Strategic Plans for Advancing Nursing in Korea.

PURPOSE: To evaluate the current and prospective status of nursing in Korea and develop a strategic framework and plan to accommodate the increased demands on nurses in the changing health care system.

METHODS: This study used a mixed-methods approach including a literature review, an online survey with health care consumers, expert panel interviews, and SWOT (strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats) analysis in order to develop the strategic plans and framework.

RESULTS: The vision of the strategic framework involved improving health and quality of life, and its mission was to elevate the status of Korea's nursing sector as a key health care profession through high-quality and innovative nursing education, research, and practice. The five values in accordance with the mission and vision were innovation, creation, collaboration, excellence, and authenticity. Three strategic goals, namely education, research, and practice were identified, and 31 related strategic tasks were developed.

CONCLUSION: In response to the rising social demand for a paradigm shift in nursing care services, there is a need for advancements in nursing education, research, and practice in Korea. We provide some recommendations to achieve these aims.