Competence In Patients With Complex Medical Conditions Is Key
Jill Peacock is the regional nursing director for Epic Health Services, which is considered a leading pediatric home healthcare company in the US. Peacock has over 20 years healthcare management experience. She is trained in everything from home health regulatory compliance to program development, and has a doctorate from John Hopkins University School of Nursing in nursing practice.
Can you describe your duties as a healthcare administrator?
"As a regional nursing director, I'm responsible for the clinical operations of a firm that provides skilled pediatric and adult nursing services in the homes of our clients. My region includes eight offices in four states. My specific duties include ensuring compliance with federal and state regulations, supervising the nursing directors at each office, overseeing implementation of company wide educational programs to support staff development, developing positive working relationships with key clinical contacts at referring hospitals, and serving as a clinical resource for matters that require high-level engagement with third-parties, such as insurance companies, hospitals and universities. In addition, I work closely with our regional operations director to make sure our clinical and operational teams implement standardized processes that optimize the delivery of quality care and patient satisfaction."
How has education prepared you for your career as a nurse and in healthcare administration?
"Formal education has had a tremendous influence in my career and has broadened my prospects for positions with increasing scope of responsibility. Exposure to new knowledge has shaped my views about nursing practice and care delivery systems and their impact on health outcomes for patients with medically complex conditions. Early in my career, education sharpened my skills in critical thinking and leadership practices. Completing the doctorate in nursing practice (DNP) was a transformative experience that further prepared me for an advanced role in healthcare administration by recognizing the value in research findings, applying the evidence into nursing practice and evaluating its impact on health outcomes for vulnerable populations."
What continuing education is required for your role?
"Although there are no specific continuing education requirements for the regional nursing director position, I maintain my standing as a clinician by staying compliant with all continuing education requirements as specified by each state in, which I practice and have supervisory responsibilities."
What advice would you give someone just starting out?
"Seek opportunities in organizations that value staff development and training. Continue to develop your clinical skills and look for opportunities to gain competence in the care of patients with complex medical conditions. Learn to work effectively on multidisciplinary teams. Be open to feedback from mentors, supervisors and co-workers. Never stop learning."
Christina Thompson is a freelance writer living in Philadelphia. She reports on various topics such as: Social Media, Local Events, Entertainment, Food and Drink and more. Her work can be found at http://firstsendmedia.com/