The American Nurses Association (ANA) is a professional organization representing the interests of the nation's registered nurses. Founded in 1896, the ANA is headquartered in the United States and operates across the healthcare and nursing sectors.
The ANA's core mission involves advancing and protecting the nursing profession through advocacy, education, and professional communities. It represents the interests of more than 5 million registered nurses in the United States.
Through its subsidiary, the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC), the association offers world-class certification programs recognized as the gold standard in nurse credentialing. The ANCC also administers the Magnet Recognition Program® and the Pathway to Excellence® program, which recognize healthcare organizations for nursing excellence, as well as accreditation programs.
