0
0
A new study from Columbia University School of Nursing highlights the critical role nurse practitioners (NPs) play in expanding access to primary care, particularly in socioeconomically disadvantaged communities. Published in JAMA Network Open on February 28, 2025, the study was led by Assistant Professor Monica O’Reilly-Jacob, Ph.D.
The researchers analyzed data from 79,743 primary care practices across the United States, revealing that more than half (53.4%) of these practices employed NPs in 2023— a significant increase from 21% in 2012. The study found that practices employing NPs were more likely to be located in low-income (23.3% vs. 17.2%) and rural (11.9% vs. 5.5%) areas, underscoring their role in addressing disparities in healthcare accessibility.
Communities where NPs provided care also had higher rates of individuals living below the poverty level (14.4% vs. 12.8%) and more residents without high school diplomas (19.8% vs. 18.5%). Given the ongoing shortage of primary care physicians, which is projected to reach between 20,200 and 40,400 by 2036, the researchers emphasize the importance of NPs in filling this gap.
“This study demonstrates that NPs are increasingly utilized for primary care delivery across the country, and especially within low-socioeconomic communities,” O’Reilly-Jacob and her colleagues noted. “This is important as fewer medical residents are choosing to practice primary care.”
The study also calls for policy measures to encourage and retain NPs in underserved areas. Recommended steps include strengthening federal and state loan repayment programs, ensuring pay parity in state Medicaid programs, and formally designating NPs as primary care providers across all payer systems. Implementing these strategies could enhance the capacity of the primary care system to meet growing healthcare demands.
For more details, the full study is available in JAMA Network Open: Monica O’Reilly-Jacob et al., Socioeconomic Characteristics of Communities With Primary Care Practices With Nurse Practitioners (2025). DOI: 10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2024.62360.
Disclaimer: This article is based on findings from the referenced study and is for informational purposes only. It does not constitute medical or policy advice. Readers are encouraged to consult relevant healthcare professionals and policymakers for further guidance.
