Society of Urologic Nurses and Associates (SUNA)

Mission:
Empowering Healthcare Professionals to Improve the Quality of Life for Urology Patients and Caregivers

Vision:
Optimal Outcomes for All Patients through High Quality Care.

Goals:
• Establish standards to increase patient safety outcomes.
• Advocate the importance and value of registered nurses.
• Advocate the importance and value of advanced practice providers.
• Develop and disseminate education for patients.
• Drive and influence the development of policy affecting urology nursing.

History:
In 1968, Alice Morel, a registered nurse at Montefiore Hospital in the Bronx, New York, spearheaded a meeting for those interested and dedicated to improving education for allied health professionals caring for patients with urological problems. This sparked an interest in urologic education across the country leading to many educational and organizational efforts.

In 1970, the American Urological Association (AUA) provided the first scientific program for 427 urologic health professionals in conjunction with the Annual AUA meeting in Philadelphia. The American Urological Association Allied (AUAA) was formed and the first certification exam was given the same year, a 4-hour oral exam administered by the AUA. Today, the Certification Board for Urologic Nurses and Associates (CBUNA) writes and administers the exam.