Objective Discuss the steps in setting up an independent continence practice from start to finish: the birthing of the vision, forming the business and marketing plan, attaining legal counsel, establishing a continence nurse mentor in LTC, and exploring billing, coding, and reimbursement for services.

Outcomes 2005 WOCN national conference in Las Vegas, NV was the birthplace of a vision for an independent continence practice. A continence specialist presenting case studies in LTC urge the WOCN to take advantage of the enormous benefits of an independent practice while addressing continence issues in an underserved population. Due to the federal guidelines outlined in the F315 TAG, administrators and staff in LTC are eager for continence program development. Two entrepreneurial WOC Nurse Practitioners set out to investigate the ‘how to's and viability' of a continence practice in LTC for the states of Iowa and Minnesota. A mentorship with an independent continence nurse specialist was established to assist in the development of the practice. Currently, the WOC NP's are in the middle of establishing contracts with LTC facilities, developing a detailed business plan, procuring supplies and enrolling for Medicare billing numbers. Discussion of the outcomes will be forthcoming.

Reference Smith, DB. (2002). Establishment of Continence Services. In DB Doughty (ED.), Urinary and fecal incontinence: Nursing management, 2nd edition. St. Louis: Mosby, Inc.