This week only has 1 questions. thanks!
Topic 1: The Role of the Advanced Practice Nurse in a Changing Health Care Environment
Analyze the role of the advanced practice nurse in the changing health care environment. How will this role augment physicians’ practice? What implications will the Affordable Care Act have on this new delivery system?
At least 250 words with 2 references/citations.
Expert Solution Preview
Introduction:
The healthcare environment is constantly evolving, and the role of the advanced practice nurse (APN) is becoming increasingly critical. APNs play a vital role in providing primary care services to patients, particularly in underserved areas. With the advent of technology and the Affordable Care Act (ACA), the role of APNs is set to expand further. This essay will analyze the role of the APN in the changing healthcare environment, including how this new role will augment physicians’ practice and the implications of the ACA.
Answer:
In the current healthcare environment, there is a growing demand for healthcare services due to the aging population, increasing chronic diseases and more complex health needs. The role of the APN in primary care has become more critical in addressing these challenges. APNs are trained to provide direct patient care services like physical exams, assessments, ordering and interpreting diagnostic tests, and prescribing medications. They also provide patient education, counseling and support for disease management, preventive care, and rehabilitation.
The APN’s role is expected to grow and expand to help augment physician practice. APNs have the skills and knowledge to provide a range of services that can free up physicians to focus on more complex care provision. Current trends in the healthcare industry focus on expanding the use of telehealth and remote patient monitoring, APNs can support the implementation and management of these new technologies. In many instances, APNs may be the first point of care for patients, particularly when providing home visits or managing chronic conditions. As such, they play a critical role in maintaining patient wellness and ensuring that patients receive the proper medical care they need.
The ACA has had a significant impact on the healthcare delivery system, and it has implications for the role of APNs. One of the primary objectives of the ACA is to expand access to healthcare services. The ACA creates incentives to promote interdisciplinary care, which allows for APNs to work collaboratively in teams with other healthcare professionals to improve patient care delivery. APNs may play a more significant role in care management for patients with chronic diseases, managing patient transitions of care from hospital to home, and initiating preventive care measures.
In conclusion, APNs’ role as primary care providers in the healthcare system is continually evolving. APNs are integral to the future healthcare system given their ability to provide excellent patient care, offer disease education and management, and support the implementation of new technologies. With the implementation of the ACA, interdisciplinary care will become more critical, and APNs will play an increasingly significant role in the care delivery system.
