Support for NPs and PAs Sharing a Label

摘要

Is there 1 title by which patients and colleagues can refer to NPs and PAs? The simple answer is yes. What that title should be, however, is more complicated. The argument for separate terms reflects that our training, licensure, supervision, and oversight requirements are different. The argument for 1 inclusive term is patient-centered; when practices and roles within a setting are more similar than different, differentiation is unwarranted and can be confusing. There are differences between how we (NPs) deliver care, but it is not always the role that makes the difference. Not all NPs are holistic care providers, and not all PAs think only medically. Not all NPs have a significant RN practice history, while some PAs have extensive prior medical, nursing, or other experience. The lines are more blurry than defined.