| Introduction: Healthcare in the United States is at a turning point, and the Military Health System is committed to being a leader in the national conversation as well as the movement towards a healthier nation and healthier living (Armymedicine.mil). While efforts are being made towards this move, Army Medicine is in the midst of a reorganization to improve healthcare delivery service across the Army. A public health gap analysis conducted by an Army Public Health Nurse(APHN), noted practice gaps in the areas of assessment and evaluation. In order to address these gaps, it is paramount that APHNs are equipped with the tools and resources to meet the objectives of Army Medicine.;Aims: The purposes of this study are to assess the knowledge, confidence, leadership and communication skills of the APHN; and to develop a competency based leadership and mentorship educational toolkit.;Methods: This project used qualitative and quantitative measures with Pre-test survey and Post-test SWOT Analysis. The study examined the relationship between leadership and rank and leadership and communication. In addition, the study examined the use of an educational toolkit for APHNs transitioning into Chief position. The demographic variables of age, rank, gender, years of service, military status were identified and used in the analysis.;Results: The results were mixed. The project did demonstrate enhancement in knowledge and confidence. However, there was no overall improvement in skills. There was an overall improvement in knowledge and confidence. There are gaps in the implementation of this project identified areas of opportunity for additional APHN education, civilian leadership opportunities as well as processes that can be improved. |
