Playing a vital part in the evolution of healthcare is the primary care nurse practitioner (NP). These highly trained and dedicated professionals work in clinics, offices, hospitals, nursing homes, or other settings. With advanced education, they are able to provide general and preventative care, check-ups, and treatment, order lab tests, and prescribe medications. NPs are able to serve as primary care healthcare providers, either alone or alongside a medical doctor, depending on their state’s regulations.
As reported in AANP.org, “NPs are becoming the health partner of choice for millions of Americans.”
FILLING A VITAL NEED
Nurse practitioners date back to the 1960s when the concept was introduced in order to address healthcare-related trends.
First and foremost, medical doctors were increasingly deciding to pursue practice in fields of specialization. This caused a shortage of primary care physicians, especially in rural and other underserved areas.
Additionally, the development of Medicare and Medicaid programs in 1965 provided access to healthcare to low-income children, women, seniors and individuals with disabilities. This, in turn, increased the need for primary care providers.
The result of these trends was an enormous gap between supply and demand. An aging population and the growing prevalence of chronic health problems further exacerbated this.
In 1964, the first NP program was created to train professionals to address this growing need through expanding roles and education. During the 70s and 80s, the training and credentialing process became more standardized, and success was monitored and recognized.
The role of an NP is essential; thus, the training is rigorous and comprehensive. In general, the educational path is likely to include the individual first earning their BSN, passing the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX), and becoming a registered nurse (RN). This is followed by completing a graduate program in nursing as an MSN or Doctor of Nursing Practice (DPN). From start to finish, the process to earn the designation of NP usually takes six to eight years to complete.
WHAT ARE NPs ABLE TO DO?
There are currently three types of practice regulations for NPs, based on the state in which they practice.
- Full practice-permits NPs to prescribe, diagnose, and treat patients without oversight from a physician. NPs can establish and operate their own independent practices.
- Reduced practice-NPs can diagnose and treat patients but require physician oversight for writing prescriptions.
- Restricted practice-NPs require physician oversight to prescribe, diagnose and treat
As of April 2022, full practice authority has been adopted in 26 states, the District of Columbia, and two U.S. territories. This is expected to grow as the benefits and success are fully recognized.
THE BENEFITS OF ENTRUSTING CARE TO AN NP
- NPs are filling the gap in a growing shortage of primary care providers
- By training, NPs have a holistic approach to providing medical care
- NPs work and collaborate with other healthcare professionals
- Patients who see NPs are likely to have lower healthcare costs
- NPs greatly improve access to care
- NPs streamline care
- More than 80% of NPs accept Medicare and Medicaid NPs are able to provide comprehensive care
- Surveys show that patients of NPs have a high satisfaction rate
Medical clinics are increasingly staffed and overseen by NPs. Ready Clinic sites in three locations in Georgia are staffed by highly trained NPs and support staff. Three physicians collaborate, providing the oversight required by Georgia law.