This Sunday, February 16, 2025, NBC’s *Today Show* with Willie Geist will honor the life and legacy of Dr. Loretta Ford, a trailblazer in healthcare who passed away at the remarkable age of 104. Dr. Ford, co-founder of the nurse practitioner (NP) role, leaves behind a legacy that has forever changed the landscape of nursing and patient care. The tribute will air from 7 to 8 AM CST, celebrating her extraordinary contributions and the profound impact she made on healthcare worldwide.
Dr. Ford’s pioneering work in the 1960s led to the creation of the nurse practitioner role, a groundbreaking innovation that transformed how healthcare is delivered. Alongside Dr. Henry Silver, she developed the first NP program at the University of Colorado, envisioning a future where nurses could provide advanced, compassionate care to underserved communities. Her vision was rooted in the belief that nurses, with advanced education and training, could bridge gaps in healthcare access and improve outcomes for countless patients.
Her legacy is immeasurable. Today, there are over 355,000 nurse practitioners in the United States alone, each carrying forward Dr. Ford’s mission of patient-centered care. NPs are now integral to healthcare systems worldwide, providing everything from primary care to specialized services, often in areas where physicians are scarce. Dr. Ford’s work not only elevated the nursing profession but also ensured that millions of people could receive the care they needed.
Dr. Ford was more than a visionary; she was a mentor, a leader, and a friend to countless nurses and healthcare professionals. Her passion for “health for all” inspired generations to pursue advanced practice roles and advocate for equitable healthcare. She believed in the power of collaboration, education, and compassion, often reminding nurses, “We have a unique opportunity to make a difference in the lives of others every single day.” These words continue to resonate as a guiding principle for healthcare professionals everywhere.
The National Nurse Practitioner Symposium (NNPS), where Dr. Ford was a cherished figure, expressed deep sorrow at her passing. Just a few years ago, they had the honor of celebrating the 50th anniversary of the NP role with her, a testament to her enduring influence. Her leadership and mentorship were unparalleled, and her unwavering dedication to the NP movement inspired countless nurses to push boundaries and strive for excellence.
Dr. Ford’s impact extended far beyond her professional achievements. She was a role model, a teacher, and a source of inspiration for anyone who had the privilege of knowing her. Her commitment to lifelong learning and her belief in the potential of nurses to lead and innovate left an indelible mark on the profession. She was often referred to as a “Super Nurse,” a title that barely scratches the surface of her contributions.
As we mourn her passing, we also celebrate her extraordinary life. Dr. Loretta Ford’s legacy lives on through the countless nurse practitioners she inspired, the patients whose lives were improved by her vision, and the healthcare systems she helped shape. Her work has ensured that her impact will be felt for generations to come.
This Sunday’s tribute on the *Today Show* is an opportunity to reflect on Dr. Ford’s remarkable journey and the enduring power of her vision. Tune in to honor a true pioneer whose life was a testament to the transformative power of nursing. Dr. Loretta Ford may be gone, but her legacy will continue to inspire and guide the future of healthcare.