Advanced Practice Registered Nurses Poised for Takeover of Medical Care in LTC

Angie SzumlinskiHealth, News

The healthcare workforce is expecting a startling shortage of between 46,900 and 121,900 licensed physicians by 2032. One group that may mitigate the catastrophic impact of this shortage could be advanced practice registered nurses. Advanced practice registered nurses (APRN) are prepared to offer a myriad of services including diagnoses and treatment due to their masters-level education.

Nurse Practitioners could be the answer to the looming physician shortage. Click To Tweet

What Does This Mean to You?

Nurse Practitioners are present in almost every center HealthCap visits throughout the year. Some centers have on site support 7 days per week, others vary between daily to weekly support visits. These practitioners often assist the PCP in addressing acute issues, etc. Depending on the state’s designation of the NP’s scope of practice, some can now serve as an attending PCP within the SNF. However, in most situations, Medicare requires that the initial visit (history and physical) must be performed by a physician for the purpose of certifying that the patient requires skilled care. If you are utilizing NPs in your center it may be helpful to read the article below to be sure that your billing practices (or those of the provider) meet Medicare requirements. Remember, there is no “gray” when it comes to the government. Remember, it is your responsibility to ensure ethical/legal practices are maintained in your center! 

To read more about The Ever-Expanding Role of Nurse Practitioners in LTC, read the article in Annals of Long Term Care.