Healthcare is a trillion of dollars industry in the United States; and, healthcare careers are among the most rapidly growing segments in the country. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that healthcare careers have some of the lowest unemployment rates across the board, averaging around 2.0% with above average job growth rates.
One reason for the positive job outlooks in healthcare is the confluence of a large, aging population (Baby Boomers) and more, previously uninsured, people having access to health insurance. This has created a great demand healthcare services. Clinical professionals are needed to meet this influx of patients and provide quality patient care across the spectrum.
What Is The Role For Nurse Practitioners In This Environment?
Simply put, never has employment opportunities been as strong for Nurse Practitioners. There has been a shortage of physicians over the past ten years and, increasingly, Nurse Practitioners are stepping in to fill the clinical gap by being independently able to assess, diagnosis, treat and follow a patient. The employment rate for this profession is a much faster than average 31% between 2016-2026; and, the American Association of Nurse Practitioners estimates 23,000 professionals are entering the employment pool each year.
Are There Areas Of The Country With A Greater Number Of NP Jobs?
In short, yes. The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports the states with the highest concentration of Nurse Practitioner jobs are: Tennessee, Mississippi, Maine, Massachusetts and New Hampshire. States with the highest employment figures for NPs include: California, New York, Texas, Florida and Ohio. Additional information on cities with higher statistics for NP employment can be reviewed at Bureau of Labor Statistics. The Nurse Journal reports that rural and underserved areas will provide opportunities for Nurse Practitioners. Frequently, colleges and universities offer tuition incentives for students interested in practicing in rural areas where fewer physicians are available.
How Does A Nurse Practitioner Career Compare To Other Healthcare Professions?
U.S. News and World Report cites Nurse Practitioner career ranks #4 in its Top 100 Best Jobs In America and #3 in Best Healthcare Jobs (just behind dentists and Physician Assistants). According to the publication, the top 50% of Nurse Practitioners earn salaries in the six-figures.
Currently Working As A Registered Nurse?
There's good news for nurses wanting to pursue a Nurse Practitioner career. To meet the challenges of training certified Nurse Practitioners, colleges and universities have developed online Advanced Practice Nursing programs, allowing nurses to continue to work and gain an advanced degree and a Nurse Practitioner certification. Best Medical Degrees has published information for online NP programs, specialty concentrations and admission requirements in 10 Best Value Online Primary Care Nurse Practitioner Programs, 10 Best Value Online Pediatric Primary Care Nurse Practitioner Programs, 10 Best Value Psychiatric Mental Health (PMHNP) Nurse Practitioner Online Degrees, 10 Most Affordable Online Nurse-Midwifery Certificates , 20 Most Affordable Nurse Anesthesia Degree Programs. These rankings will help you explore the program which may best fit your particular career goals.