Background

Sustained partnerships that strengthen and expand nursing's contribution to the integration of academic nursing into clinical practice holds the promise of improving Academic Health Systems (AHS).

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to propose a framework whereby academic/clinical integration can be achieved within the AHS to enhance relationships between academe and clinical nursing entities.

Methods

Nursing deans and chief nurse officers/vice presidents from top ranked AHS offer perspectives to advance the integration of nursing leadership into the governance of high functioning AHS.

Findings

Academic and clinical nursing entities within the AHS governance calls for a shared framework to promote an integrated approach to full engagement of academic and clinical nursing.

Discussion

The collaborative benefits of aligning nursing's academic/clinical missions within AHS are described. The challenges and opportunities inherent in the way forward must build on intentionality and commitment for academic and clinical nursing entities to transform the AHS and improve outcomes.