Introduction
In the context of contemporary health care, the growth of nurse practitioners (NPs) can be observed across the United States. However, numerous barriers limiting nurse practitioner practice exist at various levels. In particular, federal regulations contribute to the problem, impacting the overall health care system. According to Torrens et al. (2020), gaps in primary care provision were reported, aggravated by restrictive federal laws on the scope of practice of NPs. Therefore, eliminating federal barriers to NP practice is essential to expand the nurse practitioner workforce to meet the growing demand for medical services.
Main body
In this regard, research findings support the need for expanding the nurse practitioner practice in today’s world. According to Poghosyan et al. (2017), “removing restrictions on NP practices that do not match the NP expertise and competencies as well as needs of primary care practices is important; new policies should encourage such effective NP practices to promote teamwork” (p.86). As health care evolves, NPs continue to play a pivotal role in improving diverse populations’ health outcomes. Nonetheless, as reported by the American Association of Nurse Practitioners (n.d.), federal laws prevent the NP and their patients from becoming full program participants. The physician visit requirement suggests that an individual is to receive a primary care service from a primary care physician.
Conclusion
To conclude, barriers for nurse practitioners continue to be an acute problem. In particular, family nurse practitioners face the challenge of federal regulations restricting their practice. Furthermore, NPs must compete with physician assistants due to the federal laws. As a result, a significant barrier arises with regards to meeting the increased demand for health care. American Association of Nurse Practitioners requires that NPs must be authorized to provide care, particularly in today’s tough conditions.
References
American Association of Nurse Practitioners (n.d.). AANP federal policy priorities. Web.
Poghosyan, L., Norful, A. A., & Martsolf, G. R. (2017). Primary care nurse practitioner practice characteristics: Barriers and opportunities for interprofessional teamwork. The Journal of ambulatory care management, 40(1), 77-86. Web.
Torrens, C., Campbell, P., Hoskins, G., Strachan, H., Wells, M., Cunningham, M., Bottone, M., Polson, R., & Maxwell, M. (2020). Barriers and facilitators to the implementation of the advanced nurse practitioner role in primary care settings: A scoping review. International Journal of Nursing Studies, 104, 103443.