[n_g]

Originally Posted by jzzy88

Do NPs and DNPs compete with physicians or are they trying to help patients? Would physicians prefer to do everything on their own?

When you look for a job, when you are looking at reimbursements, when you're writing scripts, when you're trying to get hospital privileges, the answer will come to you.

[jzzy88]

Originally Posted by dhigbee

With regards to semi-autonomy: MDs are not completely autonomous. Generalists often consult with each other, or refer to specialists. With any profession, one must know one's limits, and when it's time to send the patient on. We can't solve every problem for every one of our patients.

That being said: I work in indigent care, and have much more "autonomy" then if I worked in a standard group practice setting. There is often an MD onsite, but at times I'm the only provider. The responsibility is immense, but the rewards are also immense. My job is stressful at times, but I wouldn't want to be doing anything else.

Dana

You make and excellent point.

[VivaRN]

I would call the NP/MD relationship more collaborative than subordinate. No provider should work in isolation. Of course some practice settings are more independent than others, some providers (whatever their letters) are easier to work with than others. There is such a need for healthcare I haven't felt competitive with MD's on a personal level. They're not going into indigent care or family practice (gotta pay off those loans after all)... there is a need for us in these areas and we fill it well.

I'm not out to be a junior doctor but a senior nurse. Our strength in building relationships with patients, education, involving the patient in the plan of care leading to better clinical outcomes - it makes a difference in the quality of care we provide. Be proud of what you bring as a nurse.

It's not a competition, it's a team, and there are more than enough
patients to go around.