The National Institute of Nursing Research (NINR) has released its first new strategic plan in five years, focusing on the implementation of precision medicine and greater use of data science in clinical trials.

“In developing this strategic plan, we have focused on the areas of science in which the needs are greatest, and for which we believe NINR-supported science can have the largest impact,” said NINR Director Patricia A. Grady in her introduction to the plan. “The plan reflects not only the long-standing focus areas of nursing science, but also areas in which nurse scientists can use their expertise in clinical research and their understanding of the relationship between behavior and biology to further expand the reach and impact of nursing science in the larger community.”

Four areas where research efforts should be rescued are identified in the plan: symptom science, wellness, self-management, and end-of-life and palliative care. 

NINR said the plan was crafted in part thanks to responses to its innovative questions initiative from researchers, medical organizations and the general public.

“It is important to remember, however, that this plan is intended to be a flexible, living document. As new science and new opportunities emerge, and as new health challenges arise, NINR will regularly seek to reassess and adapt its research strategies to meet these needs and opportunities,” the plan said.

The full strategic plan is available here.