24 Reasons Nurse Practitioners Are in High Demand For The Next 10 Years

Written By: Lauren Jacobson MS, RN, WHNP-BC

In recent years, the role of nurse practitioners (NPs) has become increasingly important in the healthcare system. The demand for NPs is projected to grow rapidly in the next decade, driven by a variety of factors. Many people may ask, "why are nurse practitioners in high demand?" There are 24 reasons nurse practitioners are in high demand for the next 10 years. From their autonomy and cost-effectiveness to their ability to increase access to care, manage chronic diseases, and improve patient outcomes, NPs have become an integral part of the healthcare team.

In this article, we will explore these 24 reasons in detail, highlighting the unique and valuable contributions that nurse practitioners make to the healthcare system. Whether you are considering a career as a nurse practitioner or are already an NP and are wondering what the next 10 years can look like, read on to learn more about reasons nurse practitioners are in high demand for the next decade.


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WHAT IS THE ESTIMATED DEMAND FOR PRACTITIONERS FOR THE NEXT 10 YEARS?

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the demand for nurse practitioners is expected to grow 46% from 2021 to 2031, much faster than the average for all occupations. This growth can be attributed to several factors, including an aging population, increased prevalence of chronic diseases, and the need for primary care services.

In addition, nurse practitioners are increasingly being recognized as valuable members of healthcare teams, and as states continue to expand their scope of practice, nurse practitioners will be able to provide more services and fill the gap in areas where there is a shortage of primary care physicians.

These trends suggest that the demand for nurse practitioners will continue to be strong in the next decade, making it a promising career choice for those interested in healthcare.

Employment in 2021	Employment in 2031	Projected New Employment Growth (2021-2031)
		Number	%
246,700	359,400	112,700	45.68%
(Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics)

WHAT ARE THE REASONS WHY NURSE PRACTITIONERS ARE IN HIGH DEMAND?

(The following are the 24 main reasons why nurse practitioners are in high demand for the next 10 years.)

REASON #1: Growing demand for healthcare services

One of the primary drivers of the growing demand for healthcare services is the aging of the population. As the baby boomer generation continues to age, there is an increasing demand for healthcare services, as they require more frequent and complex care. This increased demand for healthcare services is also driven by the prevalence of chronic conditions, such as diabetes, heart disease, and cancer, which require ongoing management and treatment.

Furthermore, the COVID-19 pandemic has further highlighted the critical role that NPs play in providing high-quality, accessible, and affordable care. During the pandemic, many healthcare systems were overwhelmed, and there was an urgent need for additional healthcare providers to help manage the influx of patients.

NPs have proven to be an essential part of the healthcare team during the pandemic, providing a range of services, including triage, assessment, diagnosis, and treatment. NPs have also been instrumental in helping to manage the ongoing care needs of patients with chronic conditions, as well as providing education and support to patients and their families.

REASON #2: Physician shortages

The shortage of primary care physicians in the United States is one of the key factors driving the demand for nurse practitioners. According to the Association of American Medical Colleges, the United States is projected to experience a shortage of up to 139,000 physicians by 2033. This shortfall will be particularly acute in rural and underserved areas, where access to primary care is already limited. Nurse practitioners are uniquely qualified to fill this gap and provide high-quality, cost-effective care to patients in need. As a result, nurse practitioners are increasingly being recognized as an important part of the healthcare workforce and are being utilized to a greater extent to address the physician shortage.

REASON #3: Cost-effectiveness

NPs are often less expensive to employ than physicians, which makes them an attractive option for healthcare organizations looking to reduce costs. NPs can provide high-quality care at a lower cost, which can help organizations manage their budgets more effectively. The following points are some of the ways NPs are more cost-effective:

REASON #4: Access to care

Nurse practitioners play a vital role in increasing access to care, particularly in underserved communities. One of the primary reasons for this is that NPs can provide a broad range of primary care services, including health promotion, disease prevention, and early intervention. This means that they can help to address a wide range of healthcare needs in these communities, which can often lack adequate access to healthcare services.

NPs are also trained to provide care that is culturally competent and patient-centered, which is essential in communities where language, cultural, and socioeconomic barriers can create significant obstacles to healthcare access. By working collaboratively with physicians and other healthcare providers, NPs can help to develop culturally appropriate care plans that address the unique needs of each patient. This can help to build trust and establish long-term relationships with patients, which is crucial in promoting healthcare access and improving health outcomes.

REASON #5: Expanded scope of practice

One of the reasons that NPs are in high demand is their expanded scope of practice. NPs have the advanced education and clinical training necessary to provide a wide range of healthcare services, including primary care, preventive care, and management of acute and chronic conditions. This expanded scope of practice allows NPs to work independently, and in some states, they can even establish their own practices.

REASON #6: Patient satisfaction

One of the key reasons nurse practitioners are in high demand is their ability to improve patient satisfaction. NPs are often trained to provide care that is patient-centered and focused on building strong relationships with their patients. This means that they take the time to listen to their patients' concerns, answer their questions, and involve them in the decision-making process about their care. By providing high-quality care in this manner, NPs can help to improve patient satisfaction and build long-term relationships with their patients.

Additionally, NPs are often more accessible than physicians, which can further improve patient satisfaction. They are able to offer extended office hours, provide care through telemedicine, and offer same-day appointments, which can help to reduce wait times and improve access to care.

Overall, the high level of patient satisfaction that NPs provide is a significant factor in their increasing demand, as more and more patients seek out the compassionate and high-quality care that NPs are known to provide.

REASON #7: Improved outcomes

Improved patient outcomes are one of the reasons nurse practitioners are in high demand. NPs are trained to provide evidence-based care that is tailored to meet the unique needs of each patient. They are also skilled in managing chronic conditions and preventing the development of further health problems. By working closely with their patients, NPs are able to identify potential health risks and develop personalized treatment plans that can lead to improved health outcomes. Additionally, NPs are often able to provide education and counseling to their patients, which can help to improve health literacy and reduce the risk of future health problems.

Overall, the ability of NPs to improve patient outcomes is a key reason for their increasing demand, as more and more healthcare organizations seek to provide high-quality care and improve the health of the communities they serve.

REASON #8: Chronic disease management

As mentioned previously, NPs are uniquely suited to manage chronic diseases such as diabetes, hypertension, and heart disease, which are on the rise in the US. NPs can help patients manage their chronic conditions by monitoring their symptoms, adjusting their medications, and providing education and counseling. They can also help patients make lifestyle changes, such as improving their diet and increasing their physical activity, that can improve their overall health and reduce the risk of complications.

Additionally, NPs are skilled in coordinating care with other healthcare providers, such as specialists and pharmacists, to ensure that patients receive comprehensive care. By effectively managing chronic diseases, NPs can help patients live healthier lives and reduce the risk of hospitalization and other complications.

This ability to manage chronic diseases is a key reason for the increasing demand for NPs, particularly as the prevalence of chronic diseases continues to rise in the US.

REASON #9: Team-based care

I loved the team in the clinic I worked with in Chelsea, MA. We were physicians, nurse practitioners, nurses, administrative personnel, and medical assistants. We all loved working together and cared actively about our patients’ well-being.

Team-based care is another factor contributing to the high demand for NPs. In today's healthcare landscape, team-based care is becoming increasingly important as a way to provide high-quality care that is patient-centered and effective. NPs are an integral part of healthcare teams, working alongside physicians, nurses, and other healthcare providers, often being a trusted liaison between the patient and other healthcare providers. By working collaboratively with other healthcare providers, NPs can help to identify potential health risks, develop treatment plans, and monitor patient progress.

This team-based approach can help to improve the quality of care and reduce the risk of medical errors. The demand for team-based care is growing, and NPs are well-positioned to meet this demand by providing high-quality care that is collaborative, coordinated, and effective.

REASON #10: Holistic approach

In contrast to medical theory and the medical model of healthcare that physicians are trained through, nurses and nurse practitioners are trained through nursing theory, which takes a more holistic approach. Rather than simply treating the symptoms of an illness or condition, NPs are trained to treat the whole person, taking into account their physical, mental, and emotional health. Nowadays this approach is increasingly important as patients are seeking care that is more personalized, compassionate, and patient-centered.

By taking a holistic approach to patient care, NPs can help to improve patient outcomes, reduce healthcare costs, and improve patient satisfaction. This approach also allows NPs to develop a deeper understanding of their patients' needs and provide care that is tailored to meet those needs.

Overall, the holistic approach to patient care is one of the reasons nurse practitioners are in high demand, as healthcare organizations seek to provide high-quality care that is patient-centered and effective.

REASON #11: Education and counseling

NPs are in high demand because they are well-trained to provide education and counseling to patients. NPs are experts in disease prevention and health promotion, and they work with patients to develop strategies for living healthier lives. Educating patients empowers them to understand and take charge of their own health care, and this can lead to better patient outcomes. Additionally, NPs provide counseling on a wide range of topics, such as stress management, healthy eating, and physical activity.

REASON #12: Preventive care

One of the reasons NPs are in high demand is because they are experts at providing preventive care services. Preventive care focuses on promoting health and wellness, preventing illness, and detecting diseases in their early stages. NPs play a critical role in providing preventive care services, such as conducting health assessments, ordering and interpreting diagnostic tests, and developing personalized plans for health promotion and disease prevention.

By providing preventive care services, NPs can help to reduce healthcare costs, improve patient outcomes, and enhance the overall quality of care. This is one of the key reasons nurse practitioners are in high demand, as healthcare organizations and patients recognize the value of early detection and prevention in maintaining good health.

REASON #13: Mental health care

One of my family members sees an NP for her mental health care. She says it’s the best mental health care she has received throughout the course of her diagnosis. Nurse practitioners are in high demand because of their growing role in providing mental health care services. Mental health care is an essential component of overall health and well-being, and the demand for these services is increasing. They have a thorough understanding of the connections between physical and mental health and are able to provide comprehensive care that addresses all aspects of a patient's health.

Being able to provide comprehensive mental health care services is one of the reasons nurse practitioners are in high demand. They are able to provide mental health screenings, identify and manage mental health disorders, and provide counseling and support to patients with mental health issues. By addressing mental health concerns in a primary care setting, NPs are helping to reduce stigma, increase access to care, and improve patient outcomes.

REASON #14: Palliative and end-of-life care

Nurse practitioners provide care to patients across their lifespan. End-of-life and palliative care can be a special time of healing and transition for both patients and families. NPs are in high demand for their specialized knowledge and expertise in palliative and end-of-life care. These areas of healthcare require a compassionate and comprehensive approach to ensure the highest quality of care for patients and their families.

NPs are well-equipped to provide this kind of care, with training in symptom management, medication management, and supportive care. They work collaboratively with other healthcare professionals to develop care plans that are tailored to the unique needs and preferences of each patient. NPs provide comfort, guidance, and support to patients and families during this difficult time, making it one of the key reasons nurse practitioners are in high demand.

REASON #15: Flexibility

Nurse practitioners are in high demand because of their flexibility in providing care. NPs have the ability to work in a variety of healthcare settings, including primary care clinics, hospitals, urgent care centers, and nursing homes. They are also able to provide care across the lifespan, from pediatrics to geriatrics. NPs can work independently or as part of a healthcare team, providing continuity of care and adapting to the needs of their patients.

This flexibility allows NPs to fill critical gaps in the healthcare system, providing high-quality care in areas where there may be a shortage of providers. Flexibility is one of the reasons nurse practitioners are in high demand, as they are able to provide accessible and comprehensive care in a variety of settings.

REASON #16: Autonomy

In many states, NPs have a high degree of autonomy in their practice, which allows them to provide a wide range of services and make clinical decisions independently. This autonomy is granted by state laws and regulations that outline the scope of practice for NPs.

Autonomy allows NPs to practice to the full extent of their training and education, which can result in high-quality care for patients. NPs can diagnose and treat a variety of conditions, prescribe medications, order and interpret diagnostic tests, and provide education and counseling to patients. This level of autonomy also makes NPs more attractive to healthcare organizations, as they can operate more independently and make clinical decisions without direct oversight from a physician. This can improve the efficiency of care delivery and reduce the workload for physicians, who can focus on more complex cases.

Overall, nurse practitioner autonomy is a key factor in their high demand, as it allows them to practice to the full extent of their training and education, make clinical decisions independently, and provide high-quality care in a variety of settings.

REASON #17: Career advancement

NPs are in high demand, in part, because of the numerous opportunities for career advancement in the field. NPs can specialize in a variety of areas, such as cardiology, oncology, or psychiatry, and can also pursue advanced degrees and certifications.

These advanced credentials can lead to leadership roles in healthcare organizations, teaching positions in academic settings, and even entrepreneurial ventures. According to a Medscpe report in 2018, 82% of NPs said that they would still choose becoming an NP if they could do it all over again. This focus on career advancement and growth is one of the key reasons nurse practitioners are in high demand.

REASON #18: Work-life balance

Work-life balance is one of the key reasons nurse practitioners are in high demand. NPs are able to work flexible schedules, including part-time and telehealth positions, which can allow for more time with family and other personal responsibilities. This contributes to high job satisfaction for nurse practitioners. I can personally attest to this. I have juggled working telehealth a couple days a week, rotating RN shifts on the weekend, and being in an outpatient clinic, all while writing these lovely articles and planning my move abroad. For me, work-life balance was a crucial component to me choosing a career as an NP versus another healthcare professional role.

REASON #19: Job security

Despite what the world seems to think of us, nurses and NPs are not endlessly altruistic. Let’s be real, we want job security too, we’re not in the field just to feel good about what we do. Nurse practitioners are in high demand, in part, because of the job security that the field provides. As the demand for healthcare services continues to increase, so does the need for NPs to provide high-quality care.

As previously discussed, according to the BLS, the employment of nurse practitioners is projected to grow 46% from 2021 to 2031, which is much faster than the average for all occupations. This demonstrates that the field boasts plenty of job opportunities. This job security is one of the key reasons nurse practitioners are in high demand.

REASON #20: Diversity

The nursing profession has made great strides in promoting diversity, and this is reflected in the growing number of NPs from diverse backgrounds. This diversity is one of the key reasons nurse practitioners are in high demand. Patients from diverse backgrounds often prefer to see healthcare providers who understand and appreciate their cultural and linguistic needs.

According to a study published in the Journal of American Academy of Nurse Practitioners, Latina patients reported greater satisfaction with NPs of Latina origin who could speak Spanish. In the clinic I used to work in, we had diverse providers and this helped our patients feel more connected to us and facilitated a trusting patient-provider relationship.

REASON #21: Multilingual

Speaking of diversity, nurse practitioners are becoming increasingly multilingual to meet patient demands. In today's diverse healthcare landscape, being multilingual is a highly sought-after skill that sets NPs apart. Being able to communicate with patients in their own language can lead to better health outcomes and improved patient satisfaction.

In the clinic I worked in Chelsea, MA, we had a large Latina population. Our patients repeatedly told us how happy and safe it made them feel coming to our clinic knowing that we all spoke Spanish. Patients who are more comfortable communicating with their healthcare provider are more likely to adhere to treatment plans and follow-up appointments, leading to better overall health. For these reasons, being multilingual is one of the key reasons nurse practitioners are in high demand, as it helps to bridge the communication gap between patients and healthcare providers, leading to better health outcomes for all.

REASON #22: Interpersonal skills

When you go to a health care clinic don’t you want to feel like you’re talking to a fellow human, not a robot right? We’ve all been in the situation where our healthcare provider lacks interpersonal skills. For most of us, no matter how many degrees we have, this can leave us feeling a bit uneasy. Interpersonal skills, such as active listening, empathy, and effective communication, are essential for nurse practitioners in providing high-quality patient care.

Patients want to feel heard and understood, and strong interpersonal skills can help build trust and establish a positive rapport between the patient and provider. One study shows that patients who reported better communication with their healthcare provider were more likely to be satisfied with their care, adhere to treatment plans, and have better health outcomes.

As such, strong interpersonal skills are one of the key reasons nurse practitioners are in high demand, as they can lead to improved patient satisfaction and better health outcomes.

REASON #23: Research

If you learned about conducting research during your bachelor’s or master’s degree in nursing, you may be wondering where and when you can put those skills to use. One reason NPs are in high demand is that they are increasingly being relied upon to conduct research. NPs' expertise in providing patient-centered care, as well as their clinical and practical knowledge, make them a valuable asset in research studies. NPs' research has the potential to contribute to evidence-based practice, improve patient outcomes, and advance the field of healthcare.

In fact, a study by the American Association of Nurse Practitioners found that more than half of NPs reported that they had been involved in research studies. By conducting research, NPs are able to contribute to the advancement of healthcare and demonstrate their value to healthcare organizations, thus increasing demand for their services.

REASON #24: Advocacy

For me, one thing that has really stuck with me throughout my NP training and career is that I am my patient’s best advocate. I have seen this dynamic play out a thousand times and it usually is a core component to improving patient outcomes and satisfaction. This can take place on a personal level in the clinic with the patient, or on a more macro level with policy development. As NPs we play an essential role in advocating for our patients and promoting policies that support access to high-quality healthcare services. This advocacy work is one of the key reasons nurse practitioners are in high demand.

As advanced practice registered nurses, NPs have a unique perspective on the healthcare system and are well-equipped to identify and address issues that may impact the health and well-being of their patients. By advocating for policies that expand access to care, increase funding for important healthcare programs, and promote health equity, NPs can make a significant impact on the health outcomes of the communities they serve.

MY FINAL THOUGHTS

When I dove into the NP field, I was aware of some, but not all of the reasons why NPs are in high demand. Years later, while I am not working clinically at this moment, I gain a lot of reassurance knowing that when I return to clinical care, there will be a need for my skills. So, why are nurse practitioners in high demand? NPs are in high demand for the next decade for many reasons, including their ability to provide high-quality care, offer preventive care, and provide mental health services. Additionally, their education and counseling skills, flexible work options, and job security make them an attractive option for both healthcare organizations and patients. Furthermore, the projected growth of the healthcare industry and the expected physician shortages also contribute to the increasing demand for nurse practitioners.

With my article 24 reasons nurse practitioners are in high demand for the next 10 years, hopefully, you can see how NPs are poised to play a critical role in the future of healthcare.