FNP working in specialty

[ChapterTwo]

I am graduating from an FNP program this August. I have a feeling I want to specialize in something, or just do something more specific with my degree rather than work in a primary care office. However, I am worried about the recertification process I will eventually face. Does anyone know which credentialing body is more lenient towards accepting hours that are not strictly primary care - ANCC or AANP?

I like the idea of AANP more right now, because I like the credentials NP-C if I were to do something that's not really "Family" medicine.

For example, if I work purely in geriatrics, will the AANP still recertify me since my education is in Family? Another interest of mine (but I'm sure I'd just have to be lucky to get into) is dermatology. If I worked in dermatology, would I get recertified as an FNP? I'm sure there are NPs in this field... so how do they go about the recert process if they're in a specialty?

[FNPdude74]

Yes you'll still be FNP through AANP since your education preparation was family practice. You can work anywhere you want provided state laws and regulations allow it without another certification. For example, you don't need ACNP to work in ED, you can be FNP, but need the proper training if your site allows it. But obviously you can't be administering anesthesia like a CRNA... I think other than that, you're golden.

[nomadcrna, DNP, CRNA, NP]

You don't have to do primary care to be re-certified. YOu just need to work as a NP in some role.

[CRF250Xpert]

There is a residencey/fellowship that gets FNPs prepared as Ortho NPs. The USAF has a program specifically designed for that, but it only takes PAs - for now.

[SoonToBeFNP]

Lahey Clinic in Burlington, MA has an NP dermatology residency that runs most every year. Check it out if you are interested in pursuing that and would be willing to relocate to the area.