At ACN, we value the insights and experiences of our Affiliate Members. Being an ACN Affiliate Member is more than just a relationship; it is about forming connections, supporting each other, and advancing the industry for our nurses, students, and healthcare professionals.
We want to hear directly from our affiliates about why they enjoy being part of our affiliate community. Join us as we delve into their stories and discover what makes affiliate membership with ACN so rewarding.
As a Platinum Affiliate, Ramsay Health Care (Ramsay) is dedicated to connecting our people with the Australian College of Nursing (ACN) to maximise opportunities for professional growth, continuing education, and leadership development opportunities. Ramsay leaders want to ensure our people are active in the evolving landscape of healthcare and an affiliate membership positions Ramsay to continue to contribute meaningfully to the nursing profession.
As an Affiliate, Ramsay utilised many of ACN’s benefits and opportunities including:
Continuing Professional Development (CPD)
- Webinars and Online Courses: Our people can attend a range of CPD opportunities, including webinars, workshops, and online courses on current nursing practices, healthcare trends, and leadership.
- CPD Tracking: Our people can use ACN’s tools to track their completed CPD activities, ensuring our Nurses meet the annual requirements for registration with the Nursing and Midwifery Board of Australia (NMBA).
Educational resources
- Access to Journals and Publications: Ramsay Nurses who are individual ACN Members, can access industry publications, research papers, and the “Collegian” journal, which keeps our nurses up to date on evidence-based practices and emerging trends in nursing.
- Professional Toolkits: Our people can use the toolkits ACN offers for specific areas of practice, such as palliative care, aged care, and chronic disease management, to improve their knowledge and practical skills.
Networking opportunities
- Special Interest Groups (SIGs): Members can participate in ACN’s SIGs to connect with other professionals who share their interest in specific areas like critical care, mental health, or leadership. This allows Ramsay Nurses to share knowledge, discuss best practices, and stay informed on key issues.
- ACN Events and Conferences: Attend national and international conferences hosted by ACN, which provide opportunities for learning, networking, and hearing from leaders in healthcare.
- Cadetship Program – Ramsay has a Cadetship program for our undergraduates. Our cadets can join the college through this program.
Mentoring and leadership development
- Leadership Programs: Engage in a range of leadership development programs that can help Ramsay nurses build skills to take on leadership roles within their organisation or the broader healthcare system. We have held an Affiliate Nurse Leadership Development Day in NSW for our Directors of Clinical Services, and this was a fabulous collaborative event. This is one of the great benefits of being a Platinum Affiliate with ACN.
- Mentoring: Nurses can engage in ACN’s mentoring programs to either mentor others or seek guidance from experienced nursing leaders, helping our nurses grow their career and leadership potential.
- Speaking Opportunities – Our Chief Nurse and Clinical Services Director, Associate Professor Bernadette Eather is a fellow of the college and can present at ACN events.
Advocacy and policy involvement
- Engage in Policy Discussions: ACN gives our people the opportunity to participate in advocacy efforts and policy discussions that shape the future of healthcare in Australia. Nurses can get involved in initiatives aimed at improving the profession, patient outcomes, and healthcare systems.
- Influencing Healthcare Change: Our people can use their membership to access forums, roundtables, and policy submissions where they can contribute their voice to important issues in nursing and healthcare.
Scholarships and grants
- Financial Support for Education: ACN provides scholarships and grants for further study, research, or attending professional development events, which nurses can apply for to advance their career.
Career advancement
- Job Listings and Career Advice: ACN offers a job board and career resources to help nurses identify new opportunities within the nursing field. Whether they are looking to advance their current role or transition into a specialised area, they can use these resources to support their journey.
- Professional Recognition: Being a member of ACN adds credibility to their professional profile, helping them stand out in job applications or internal promotions.
The knowledge and skills gained by our nurses through the affiliation with ACN contributes to creating a positive work environment, ensures practice aligns with national standards, and provides opportunity for development both clinically and professionally on an individual and organisational level.
Written by Rachel Gale
National Manager Nursing & Midwifery Workforce & Academy.
