Prepared for the future.

While putting the final touches to this issue of CLTC, I was reminded of a meeting a decade or so ago regarding a new long term care facility.

Years before the facility was scheduled to open its doors, managers met with members of the first aid squad where I've volunteered as a licensed emergency medical technician for nearly 20 years. They wanted to know our opinion about what might affect our ability to serve its residents.

We mentioned things like wide elevators that fit EMTs and paramedics with a cot to roll a supine patient. We suggested designing bathrooms larger than closets. We even talked about the height of any overhang by the doors where we'd park the ambulance. These are the types of things that can save crucial moments.

I've removed residents from some well-designed facilities and some that strike fear in my heart. Whether you're talking about the care your staff renders to residents or the accessibility you provide for visitors--both expected and unexpected--it's important to think things through.

Design is also important for a magazine to help readers navigate. So, welcome to the newly redesigned Contemporary Long Term Care. Even though everyone here at CLTC has been around the healthcare and/or publishing block a few times, expect that we're going to take our example from those LTC managers and ask questions.

We asked a lot of questions to prepare for this relaunch. CLTC's editorial direction is focused on where the LTC field is moving. We will address the issues that are a challenge for administrators and directors of nursing today and those they will face in the not-distant future.

As we announced back in February, CLTC is now part of the NPT Publishing Group family of magazines and electronic media, where I've been reporting and editing for nearly a decade. On these pages you'll find our award-winning writers and columnists with expertise in both for-profit and nonprofit facilities. CLTC will bring you the stories you need to read to prepare you and your facilities for the future.

I look forward to hearing your thoughts on our new look and our editorial direction. And, most importantly, I welcome your ideas. Drop me a note at [e-mail].