Before You Apply
IMPORTANT ANNOUNCEMENTS
The 2024 Pathway to Excellence & Pathway to Excellence in Long-Term Care Application Standards was released on October 10, 2023. Organizations applying or re-applying for either designation are required to write to the new elements of performance in the 2024 manual beginning with the February 1, 2025 cycle.
Please note: Public comment period occurred March 31-April 14, 2023 and is now closed.
Manual Clarifications
When going through the Pathway to Excellence® designation process it is important to note that there may have been changes to the version of the Pathway Application Manual you are working from. Changes may be made to the Pathway Application Manual at any time, and applicants are required to review and comply with the requirements in the Pathway Application Manual and all Pathway Application Manual updates. Application manual updates supersede the hardcopy manual requirements. The latest Pathway Application Manual updates can be found on the Pathway website under Apply and Required Forms and Resources or by clicking here.
Conducting a self-assessment is a good first step to determine whether your organization meets the requirements for Pathway to Excellence or Pathway to Excellence in Long Term Care designation. Nurses at all levels conduct a self-assessment and fully document how the Pathway Practice Standards are active in their practices, policies, and culture. The process enables your organization to compare itself against the program's compulsory elements to measure your current state. Applying for Pathway to Excellence or Pathway to Excellence in Long-Term Care designation is a significant commitment that requires three key elements: high-level oversight, a realistic timeline, and a realistic budget. The following resources are available to assist in the decision process:
Acute Care Self-Assessment Form Long-Term Care Self-Assessment
Visit our Products page for other resources to assist you in this decision process.