This is my first post:) I have always been in civilian service positions (non-profit, education, etc), and I come from a service-oriented family (Mom works in Social Security; Dad is an Army Colonel; Brother is a Marine Corp Major; sister is a Fire Dept. Captain; and my other sister is a Physician Assistant). I want to continue this legacy of service!
I have been reading and found various forums on here regarding folks who have become Certified Nurse Midwives (CNMs) as civilians OR have joined the military through the Nurse Corps; but I am interested in changing careers to become a CNM (non-nursing background with a college degree), and would like to join the Air Force and use the HPSP (Health Professions Scholarship Program) to cover the cost of the bridge program to become a CNM. Has anyone taken this route before (specifically joining using HPSP as a non-nurse)? It seems many people use the HPSP for medical school, but I know it can be used to train CNMs. I would love if anyone has some guidance on the following:
1. What is the HPSP application process/what does it require?
2. What is the timeline of the Boards? How do they base their decisions on who gets selected for an HPSP?
3. Any positive and/or "wish I had known" experiences to share as an Air Force CNM?
4. What are examples of additional leadership responsibilities that are expected from a CNM Officer?
My goal is to finish pre-reqs by this summer (2018), and apply to midwifery programs this year for a June or September 2019 start date. Hopefully I can go to COT between March - May, before school starts? Thoughts?
I'm excited about this journey! Thanks in advance for any help and advice anyone can provide! :)
1. U.S. citizen, have no criminal background, meet height/weight standards (Google AF PT test standards), and have no chronic medical conditions.
2. Your program is properly accredited by an organization that the AF accepts.
The direct entry NP programs are fairly new and not sure if the AF recognizes them yet. You need to verify with a healthcare recruiter ASAP; look on the AF website under the 'find a recruiter' link.
One option is to direct commission as a nurse. Reclass to NP once in.
NP need isn’t as high as the bedside nurse. Might be more difficult to make selection as NP when you would make the selection as RN with MSN. Would probably still come in as same rank, so think of it as a work around to guarantee selection.
Definitely don't try to re-class after joining. You may never get to be an NP. You'll have to apply and compete against others at competitive board to switch over. It's very difficult, and most people are not successful. You have to be a strong applicant and also hope your desired specialty (FNP) is more undermanned than your current specialty (say med-surg clinical nurse). I currently work with several bedside nurses with NP credentials who have unsuccessfully tried to switch over.
Not even sure you could come in as an RN. Does your direct entry NP program allow you to even sit for the NCLEX-RN exam?
Hi everyone, I know this thread is old but I’m also looking to see if I am eligible to apply for HPSP as a non nurse entering a 3 year direct entry into advance practice nursing (Family Nurse Practitioner) Program. Thanks so much in advance! Feel free to text me at *******
Holy Moly are you new to the internet? Please have the moderators remove your phone number!!!!
@Wuzzie I have no issue in disclosing my number or identity. Please relax and mind your own matters, with all due respect.
No need to be salty. But you're right, if you want every perv on the internet to call you and send you gross pictures that actually is your business. Carry on.
It's a newer thing. You essentially do an accelerated BSN program immediately followed by an graduate NP program. They typically cram a lot of courses into a short period of time, however. And these programs are typically geared towards people who already have a bachelor's degree or higher in another field; it allows skipping a lot of general education requirements.
jfratian, DNP, RN, CRNA
1,663 Posts
You might eligible be if you are:
1. U.S. citizen, have no criminal background, meet height/weight standards (Google AF PT test standards), and have no chronic medical conditions.
2. Your program is properly accredited by an organization that the AF accepts.
The direct entry NP programs are fairly new and not sure if the AF recognizes them yet. You need to verify with a healthcare recruiter ASAP; look on the AF website under the 'find a recruiter' link.