CMS lead nurse

On December 2, Dr. Donald M. Berwick will step down as administrator of the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS). Dr. Berwick will likely be replaced by Marilyn Tavenner, who has served as Berwick’s deputy chief administrator since April 2010. I read the primary article about this case last week on Reuters.com. Near the top of the article I read: Nurse in control of CMS? Yes!

Since last week, I actually have been reading more concerning the sequence of events that led to Dr. Berwick’s resignation, in addition to Marilyn Tavenner’s background and experience. Including blog post from the Washington Post., Tavenner’s journey from ICU nurse to this appointment has been detailed in comments from former colleagues, who describe her as respectful, quick-thinking, determined and hard-working. In article in HealthLeaders Mediamore former colleagues share their thoughts and feelings about Tavenner’s pragmatism, leadership experience and decision-making skills.

The The American Nurses Association (ANA) issued a press release commending the White House for its decision to nominate Marilyn Tavenner, MHA, BSN, RN, to steer CMS. I would love to affix within the praise. Seeing a nurse tackle such a major leadership role makes me proud – what about you?