Open AccessThe role of nurse practitioners in delivering rheumatology care and services: Results of a U.S. survey
Author(s) -
Riley Lydia,
Harris Cindy,
McKay Michele,
Gondran Sue Ellen,
DeCola Paula,
Soonasra Arif
Publication year - 2017
Publication title -
journal of the american association of nurse practitioners
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.414
H-Index - 19
eISSN - 2327-6924
pISSN - 2327-6886
DOI - 10.1002/2327-6924.12525
Subject(s) - medicine , rheumatology , certification , rheumatoid arthritis , family medicine , patient education , health professionals , health care , nursing , nurse practitioners , medline , physical therapy , political science , law , economics , economic growth
Background and purpose Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic autoimmune disease characterized by inflammation, pain, joint stiffness, and progressive joint destruction. An increased demand for rheumatology healthcare professionals is anticipated in coming years; utilizing more nurse practitioners (NPs) in rheumatology may help meet this demand, and improve early detection and diagnosis of RA. Methods The American Association of Nurse Practitioners surveyed, via e‐mail, members who were working in primary care settings to understand their educational and professional needs to help manage their patients with RA. Respondents were surveyed about their NP certifications, patient panel, information received from rheumatologists on shared patients, RA tools or resources that would be helpful, confidence in diagnosing and managing patients with RA, interest in learning about particular topics regarding RA medications, and preferences for exchanging educational information with their professional colleagues. Conclusions The results from this survey indicate that the role of NPs in managing RA could be optimized by improved communication with treating rheumatologists, access to educational tools and resources, and further education and training in the management of RA. Implications for practice NPs in primary care can fill a resource gap and provide access to health care for patients with RA.