#USA #Austin #Nurse Practitioners #AANP #Loretta Ford

Honoring the Legacy of Dr. Loretta Ford

The nursing community is in mourning after the profound loss of Dr. Loretta C. Ford, whose influence transcended the boundaries of traditional health care. Dr. Ford, an engineering force in the field of nursing and co-founder of the nurse practitioner (NP) role, passed away peacefully at her home in Florida on January 22, 2025, at the remarkable age of 104. Her contributions have had a lasting impact on health care delivery and accessibility, improving the lives of countless patients worldwide.

Dr. Ford's remarkable journey began back in the 1940s and 50s as a public health nurse in rural Colorado. During this time, she witnessed firsthand the critical gaps in health care services in underserved areas. This experience fueled her determination to innovate and improve health care systems. In 1965, Dr. Ford, in partnership with pediatrician Henry K. Silver, established the very first NP program at the University of Colorado. This groundbreaking initiative not only created a new professional pathway for nurses but also set in motion a transformation in how health care could be delivered to patients, especially in primary care settings.

A leader and visionary, Dr. Ford’s accolades are numerous. Her excellence did not go unrecognized, as she was honored in 2020 with the U.S. Surgeon General's Medallion, among many other prestigious awards and recognitions throughout her illustrious career. As AANP President Stephen A. Ferrara noted, Dr. Ford’s unwavering commitment and exceptional leadership significantly enriched nursing opportunities, forever changing patient care dynamics.

Even after her semi-retirement from her role as dean and professor emerita at the University of Rochester in 1985, Dr. Ford remained an advisor and lecturer, advocating fiercely for nurse practitioners globally. She was known to make everyone feel special with her kind words and wisdom, embodying the compassionate spirit that a nurse practitioner should have. This sentiment was echoed by AANP CEO Jon D. Fanning, who reflected on Dr. Ford’s ability to inspire and uplift those around her.

Dr. Ford's contributions extend beyond her professional achievements; she nurtured countless relationships as a mentor to many in the nursing community. Her wisdom and encouragement encouraged future generations of nurse practitioners to advocate for superior patient care. Many remember her saying, "As nurses, we have a unique opportunity to make a difference in the lives of others every single day. We must constantly seek new ways to improve patient care and outcomes."

As the health care community grapples with her loss, her impact lingers deeply. Dr. Ford’s groundbreaking vision and transformative leadership will serve as guiding lights for countless nurse practitioners who continue to carry forward her mission of enhancing patient health and well-being. Memorial service arrangements are being finalized, and updates will be provided to honor her enduring legacy.

The American Association of Nurse Practitioners (AANP), the leading professional organization for nurse practitioners in the United States, stands as a testament to Dr. Ford’s fruitful career. AANP represents over 385,000 licensed NPs, focusing on legislative leadership and advocating for excellence in practice, education, and research within the nursing profession. Dr. Ford's legacy will persist as a shining example, and her influence will resonate through her many contributions to nursing and health care for years to come.