Thoughts about the state of the science related to culturally competent care for persons with chronic illness and its relationship to practice.

In 1985, a very important event, the distribution of the Heckler Report, changed the direction of health policy and health research policy in this country. Although we have yet to see a yield of information that is substantially making a difference in health disparities, progress is being made and nurse scientists are at the forefront of the effort. For example, on December 21, 2001, NINR released a request for applications calling for proposals for Partnership Centers on Health Disparities (RFA-NR-02-004). The NINR in collaboration with the National Center on Minority Health and Health Disparities now funds 11 such Centers. These centers are charged with "(1) expanding the cadre of nurse researchers involved in minority health or health disparities research, (2) increasing the number of research projects aimed at eliminating health disparities, and (3) enhancing the career development of potential minority nurse investigators." NINR also currently funds seven Institutional National Research Service Awards focused on educating young nurse scientists in the conduct of health disparities research. So while I'm a little impatient about the progress we've made, I believe that, if we keep sight on what nursing research is about and the pressing need to focus attention on answering clinical questions about the prevention and treatment of chronic conditions, we are well positioned to make an enormous difference in the future. Personally, I can't wait to see what's going to happen next.