Kentucky Nurses Association

Established in 1906, the Kentucky Nurses Association (KNA) is the only full-service professional organization for the state's entire nurse population. In addition to promoting the essential role of registered nurses in the healthcare delivery system, the KNA serves as an advocate for quality patient care in all settings. From the halls of Frankfort and state agencies to boardrooms, hospitals and other healthcare facilities, the KNA is the strong voice for the nursing profession throughout the Commonwealth. Your KNA Membership affords you the opportunity to network with nurses across the state, receive free or deeply discounted educational sessions, be considered for statewide board leadership positions and much more! **Vision:** To be the voice for nurses and work for a healthier Kentucky **Mission:** Advocating for, engaging with and advancing the professional practice of nursing through - Leadership Development - Evidence Based Practice - Education - Research - Membership Growth **Health Policy:** - Through our actions, nurses will promote quality healthcare, strengthen health awareness and direct healthy promotion leading to improved health outcomes. **Core Values:** - Diversity and Inclusivity - High Ethical Standards - Life Long Learning - Accountability - Stewardship **History of the Kentucky Nurses Association:** The Kentucky Nurses Association (KNA) established in 1906, is the ***only*** full-service professional organization for the state's entire nurse population. In addition to to promoting the essential role of registered nurses in the healthcare delivery system, the KNA serves as an advocate for quality patient care in all settings. From the halls of Frankfort and state agencies to boardrooms, hospitals and other health care facilities, KNA is the strong voice for the nursing profession throughout the Commonwealth. KNA is a constituent member of the American Nurses Association, which is the spokesperson for the nation's 2.2 million registered nurses through its 54 constituent state and territorial associations. As the leader in the legislative arena and with the media on nursing issues, KNA leaders serve as the official spokesperson for nursing. Through KNA's political and legislative program, the Association has taken firm positions on everything from the critical shortage of nurses in Kentucky to the importance of a nurse in every school to HIV/AIDS policy to a patient's right to self-determination. KNA supported the creation of the Patient Safety Act that includes whistleblower protection when nurses report an unsafe condition, to access to healthcare and adequate reimbursement for healthcare services. KNA's lobbying efforts are contributing to a cost-effective and accessible health care system on the state level. In addition, members also join N-STAT (Nurses Strategic Action Team) to be informed and actively participate in influencing federal legislation. The KNA broadcasts legislative alerts via phone, ***KNA365*** app, social media channels and email. Dedicated to ensuring that an adequate supply of highly skilled nurses is available, KNA is committed to meeting the needs of healthcare consumers as well as nurses. KNA and its chapters work at local and state levels on issues such as the quality and safety of patient care, working conditions, adequate reimbursement for nursing service, health and safety of nurses as employees and many more. The KNA continues to expand the scientific and **[research](https://kentucky-nurses.nursingnetwork.com/page/70251-research)** base for nursing practice to seek new ways in which nursing services can be delivered and respond to current and future demands for cost-effective, quality health care. Nursing research is promoted through the official publication of the KNA, *The Kentucky Nurse.* KNA membership affords nurses the opportunity to network with practice councils that are organized into specialized areas of practice. Members of the state nurses association benefit from discount liability, health, dental and group insurance programs, subscriptions to the *American Nurse Today, Kentucky Nurse, The American Nurse* and access to other mailings. Membership provides discount registration to professional conferences, conventions and certification, as well as a variety of other programs and services offered at the state and national level.