American Academy of Ambulatory Care Nursing Position Paper: The Role of the Registered Nurse in Ambulatory Care

1 IN 2011, the American Aca demy of Ambulatory Care Nursing (AAACN) published the first-ever position statement regarding the role of the registered nurse (RN) in ambulatory care. Since that time, tre mendous changes have occurred in health care, especially in ambulatory care. Healthcare reform, the Afford able Care Act, the implementation of care coordination as a strategy to improve health and prevent rehospitalization, and the transition from volume-based to value-based care have resulted in an increased focus on the ambulatory care setting as the site of health care provision now and in the future. This position paper reflects the current state of ambulatory care and the crucial role of the RN as a care provider, care coordinator, and care partner. It also highlights potential role changes and adaptations for the future.