Nov. 12-18 is National Nurse Practitioner Week; Mayor Blad to deliver proclamation

In the United States this distinguished group of health care professionals, which has been practicing for more than 50 years, numbers approximately 234,000 with an additional 23,000 nurse practitioner student graduating each year, according to Karen Neill, associate dean for academic affairs and director of graduate studies in the Idaho State University School of Nursing.

Nurse practitioners provide care for patients in urban and rural settings across the health care spectrum.

Nurse practitioners are recognized as providers of high-quality, cost-effective, personalized health care, Neill added. Their practice offers a unique combination of nursing and health care services to patients throughout the life span. Focusing not only on diagnosing and managing acute and chronic illnesses, nurse practitioners integrate health promotion, disease prevention, counseling and patient education to help patients understand their complete health picture.

“In a population that is aging, with baby boomers becoming older adults in growing numbers over the next ten years, nurse practitioners are positioned to help fill the shortage of primary care clinicians that exists nationwide, especially in rural areas of the country,” Neill said.

Idaho has a growing older population who can access nurse practitioners that can be a partner in a patient centered care approach.

The Idaho State University School of Nursing prepares nurse practitioners to practice in today’s healthcare arena providing clinical expertise and leadership in moving the country toward health and longevity while improving quality of life. 

The ISU School of Nursing offers a Doctor of Nursing Practice Degree (DNP), preparing advanced practice nurses in family and in psychiatric mental health care areas.

Graduates of this program provide care for patients in urban and rural settings across the health care spectrum. Many remain in Idaho to support health and wellness of individuals, families and communities in our rural state. 

So this week, celebrate nurse practitioners, your partner in health.