Who initiated the first nurse practitioner program in 1965 at the University of Colorado?

The first nurse practitioner program was initiated in 1965 at the University of Colorado by Henry Silver and Loretta Ford. This groundbreaking program was created in response to a shortage of primary care providers and aimed to extend nursing roles into advanced practice. Loretta Ford, a nursing educator, was instrumental in conceptualizing the nurse practitioner role, which combines advanced clinical training with a strong foundation in nursing practice. Henry Silver, a pediatrician, collaborated closely with Ford to develop this innovative program that has greatly influenced how care is delivered in the healthcare system. The establishment of this program marked a significant milestone in the evolution of nursing and expanded the scope of practice for nurse practitioners, paving the way for future developments in the field.