When it comes to working in healthcare, the right resources, collaboration, and mentorship are paramount. Here at Akron Children’s, we promote a Professional Advancement Model (PAM) to help nurture and drive career growth for our teams. When our people are supported through the right orientation pathways and programming, they can advance on their terms—and enhance patient care overall.
Meet Lauren Lewis, our Lead Advanced Practice Provider (APP) who’s inspired by the efforts of her team and leadership.
“Akron Children’s has a well-developed Advanced Practice council which serves as the road map for collaboration and advocacy for NPs, PAs, CNSs and CRNAs at Akron Children’s,” Lewis says. She shares some of the unique things Akron Children’s offers for the APP clinical orientation pathway, the APP bootcamp specifically designed to help newcomers transition in their new role, the mentorship program, and the professional advancement pathway. The APC and its programs have become known for their engaging offerings and attentive leadership, with plenty of events for networking and celebrating.
When it comes to advice for new or prospective APPs looking to make the most of their role, Lewis has a few suggestions.
“Enjoy APP bootcamp!” she says. “Engage in simulation; you get out what you put in. Engage in your clinical orientation pathway! Take it seriously and use it as the guide to help you be well prepared to be successful in your role. Our Advanced Practice mentorship program can also help you navigate your new role and your employment at the hospital.”
The APPC ensures each department has a clinical orientation pathway, setting the stage for two-way feedback and communication during an orientation, which is pivotal. As I have collaborated with other APPs in the country, this is definitely unique to Akron Children’s.
Lauren Lewis, Advanced Practitioner Provider
Here, it’s more than a job—it’s an opportunity to chart your professional roadmap. Discover what a career with Akron Children’s Hospital can offer you.