The critical role of oncology nurse practitioners in cancer care: future implications.

267 According to the Association of American Medical Colleges (2007), the numbers of people diagnosed and living with cancer will rise by 81% by 2020, yet the American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO) released a report projecting a serious shortfall of trained oncology specialists by 2020 (Association of American Medical Colleges). Visit demands are projected to grow at a much quicker pace than the number of visits oncologists can provide (Erikson, Salsberg, Forte, Bruinooge, & Goldstein, 2007; Yu, 2007). The pivotal role that oncology nurse practitioners (NPs) will play in improving patient care and increasing access for patients with cancer to oncology care must be addressed. Oncology NPs should become leaders in clinical management of patients with cancer now and in the future, particularly in view of the anticipated shortage of oncology specialists.