A major motivation in implementing the strategic plan was the Board's recognition of the need to more effectively position PCR to respond to rapid and dynamic changes in healthcare. It has been a major challenge responding to trends and strengthening the organization to carry out its mission. The following is a summary of strategic plan activities:

Increase awareness of PCR's mission and the value of WOCN services
WOCN plans to raise its profile within the medical and the general communities and make a strong case for the value of WOCN services to the "bottom line."
PCR will develop a general use brochure explaining WOCN services and their importance to the healing process. We will increase exposure through presence at health and community fairs, ads in selected publications and educating public officials. We will evaluate the content of Timely Topics and seek member opinions.

2007 Activity:

• Brochure available on WOCN web site (value and need of WOC nurses)
• Timely Topics converted to web site publication starting 2008

Enhance networking opportunities for patients, nurses, other medical professionals and the general public.
PCR will improve its already well-constructed web site by expanding its links to other nursing and health organizations and seek reciprocal links on their websites. A "patient" button will be added to direct patients quickly and easily to resource information and web links. We will also consider the feasibility of"Ask the Nurse" content on the web.

2007 Activity:

• PCR Web site updated on a regular basis
• Over 100 PCR web links
• Patient Button still being considered
• 'Julie's Computer Tips' available on PCR web site
• Blast emailing for urgent membership updates
• 232,543 hits on the PCR web site between June 2007 and March 22, 2008
• First Time Attendees to conferences are recognized during conference and receive a PCR watch

Enhance the value of the WOCN - PCR educational experience
PCR will use previous feedback and comments from the 2006 member survey to enhance the value of conferences. PCR plans to attract a wider range of participants by diversifying content to include both basic and advanced practice, repeating selected sessions and offering incentives to first-timers. Programs will emphasize evidence-based practice, and cover both home care and legal aspects of practice. PCR will contact selected schools to determine how PCR can assist in improving curricula and provide career information to undergraduates and students in graduate programs.

2007 Activity:

• Donna Lockhardt met with Dean Marilyn Newhoff, San Diego State University College of Health & Human Services to explore opportunities for PCR to enhance the nursing curriculum - PCR will expand collaboration with other schools of nursing
• Volunteer List available for follow-up by President
• Reduced fee for first time attendees at conferences being considered
• Conference content continues to expand

Increase the Active and Associate membership in WOCN - PCR by 10% in 2007
PCR plans to increase contacts and support to new members, including sponsoring newcomer activities at conferences, strengthening the Mentor program, emphasizing standards of practice and importance of the mission, vision and values. PCR will strengthen its relationships with Peer Support Groups through e-mail, phone and on-site visits from PCR liaisons, and identifying issues of concern through surveys. PCR will strive for greater attendance at member meetings by keeping a tight time schedule, conducting meetings in mid-afternoon and offering incentives. We will explore ways the WOCN Society (national) can help promote PCR

2007 Activity:

• 40 first time attendees to 2007 WOCN conference
• Over 75 members attended the PCR social at WOCN conference 2007 in Utah
• WOCN forwarding current membership roster at least quarterly and one copy of new grad roster
• Current Membership 468 (March 2008) an increase of 67 new members from January 2007 (14.3% increase in membership)

Advocate for greater use of "evidence-based" practice
Continue to provide guidance to physicians, patients, colleagues, government and private/not-for-profit providers on selection of treatment based on solid research; develop fact sheets on commonly used and misused procedures for treating wounds, ostomies and incontinence.

2007 Activity:

• Evidenced-based fact sheets available on WOCN

Increase effectiveness of PCR's legislative alert system
PCR plans to augment WOCN Society national legislative advocacy by recruiting additional "eyes" to spot legislation. The alert system will develop effective tracking of responses to requests for member help. PCR will research opportunities to partner with organizations having similar legislative interests, and incorporating web-based programs that allow members direct access to legislators.

2007 Activity:

• One NIWI scholarship recipient in 2007 who will work with the Government Affairs Chair starting June 2008

Make the structural and functional changes necessary to implement the strategic plan
PCR will undertake a dynamic leadership recruitment process with the help of Peer Support Groups and follow-up on survey respondents who expressed an interest in local, regional and national service. PCR's critical mission and future plans can only be achieved with the support of our members.

2007 Activity:

• Follow up by President to first time attendees and volunteers