What is a Nurse Practitioner?

Nurse practitioners are primary care providers who practice in ambulatory, acute and long term care. They are registered nurses with specialized advanced education and clinical competency to provide health and medical care for diverse populations in a variety of primary care, acute and long term care settings. A Master’s degree is required for entry level practice.

Nurse practitioners practice autonomously and in collaboration with health care professionals, physicians and others to diagnose, treat and manage the patient’s health problems. They serve as health care researchers, interdisciplinary consultants and patient advocates.