Physician acceptance of solo-practice nurse practitioners grows

The delivery of heath care services in many places across the country is at a critical level. Rural communities often struggle to attract doctors. Even hospitals in major metropolitan areas may face the challenge of having the doctors, nurses and other specialists they need to meet demand.

Nurse practitioners have been integral to the medical community for many years. While it is true that some doctors have been reluctant to embrace their role, others readily see the value nurse practitioners provide....

Full Story: http://www.bizjournals.com/memphis/stories/2006/03/27/focus4.html

As more and more doctors tired of doing rounds, dealing with families and the "grunt" work of bedside care, I think we'll see wider adoption of nurse practitioners. Like tasks that doctor's once did and are now done by nurses, more and more will be delegated to nurse practitioners.

If it means less carrying the beeper, running around for them, fewer calls at two o'clock in the morning, less dealing with families, patient concerns, I think most will be very receptive to it.

Andrew Lopez, RN
A to Z Nursing Resources
http://www.nursinga2z.com