Airforce Np base options

jfratian, DNP, RN, CRNA · May 27, 2018

Overall, I think the idea of choosing a nursing specialty or joining the military based on specific traveling locations is dumb. The military gives you only a minor say in the decision of where to send you to begin with. Having said that, I'll answer your question.

Family NP (FNP) has the most base options, because nearly every AF base has a family health clinic that uses FNPs. So, as an FNP in the AF, you could literally be stationed at any AF base.

Although I think many bases have mental health clinics and would likely use PMHNPs, some smaller bases may not have them. Only 3 AF bases offer inpatient mental health (Anchorage (AK), Fairfield (CA), and San Antonio (TX). I really can't be any more specific than that.

CRNA is limiting you to only bases with operating rooms. You'll have the fewest number of base options.

The AF doesn't have much of a presence on Hawaii and only has a small outpatient clinic there. The Army, which operates the large Tripler Medical Center, would be a better bet for Hawaii. I think Korea and Japan are options for CRNA, PMHNP, and FNP in the AF.

Editorial Team / Moderator · May 27, 2018

I wasn't sure if the OP was talking about seeking a commission or working as a GS civilian; it wasn't clear.

promomma · May 27, 2018

Thank you for your reply, I believe the AF is known to give most recruits their 1st or second choices. I think they are very good about that so I don't think its dumb at all to pick a specialty based on its mobility. Since my goal is abroad and nursing options for overseas are government/ military. I believe making sure I can work at certain abroad bases whether military or civilian government is key to my life goals. Once again thank you for the reply. Hopefully some officers with more experience can chime in.

promomma · May 27, 2018

Either really both are options. But more so commissioning in AF. I feel as though if a base hires pmhnp then it makes sense they would have officers of the same specialties needed there as well, or vice versa. Hope that makes sense and if not please correct me if I am wrong.

Editorial Team / Moderator · May 28, 2018

I believe the AF is known to give most recruits their 1st or second choices. I think they are very good about that so I don't think its dumb at all to pick a specialty based on its mobility.

Jfratian is an experienced AF officer. His advice is solid, whether or not you like the answer. Your best bet would be seeking civilian employment with the military if you want control over where you live. I was in the Army, they do not use active duty NPs as it might suit you. Good luck.

promomma · May 28, 2018

Sorry, I am confused on your last sentence. They do or don't use np for active duty? Why would it suite me?

broughden · May 28, 2018

Sorry, I am confused on your last sentence. They do or don't use np for active duty? Why would it suite me?

Because you may not be happy with the scope of practice for a NP in the military, as an actual officer versus in a civilian support role.

Just curious have you ever been to Japan or Korea?

jfratian, DNP, RN, CRNA · May 28, 2018

The AF does not 'usually give recruits their first or second choice.' I got my 5th choice for my first base. I know countless other AF nurses who did not get any choice on their list. I can safely say that you are not correct on this. The AF always determines assignments in this order: (#1) needs of the AF, (#2) needs of an officer's career, (#3) personal preference.

Overseas bases are typically harder to get, because the facilities are typically smaller (requiring fewer people), and because they are typically more desirable. Again, do not join any military branch if you will only be happy if you live in certain places.

Also, even if you get your dream assignment, overseas assignments are controlled in length. Korea is a 1 year tour. Japan is a 2 year tour. You will be joining for 4 years of active duty time. That means that you'll be forced to go somewhere else after your dream assignment. Think about that too.

Trauma Columnist · May 29, 2018

The military (all branches) don't really care where you WANT to go but rather the NEEDS of the military will ALWAYS come first. If you are set on a specific place, perhaps being a civilian NP overseas would be a better option?

Please don't lash out at posters who give you answers that you may not like. Recruiters RECRUIT, that's their job.

divadanger · May 29, 2018

Hi! FYI, I'm not a nurse, but this is something I found after doing some research and it actually list possible bases, though I wouldn't know if it's accurate...hope it helps! https://www.atu.edu/nursing/docs/usaf_nurse_corps-information_booklet-4feb13.pdf

jfratian, DNP, RN, CRNA · May 30, 2018

Those bases are generally correct from what I see, but that info is from Feb 2013. It doesn't include psych NPs, because I think they weren't widely used by the AF back in 2013. The CRNA and Family NP info looks spot on to me.