5 Benefits of a Family Nurse Practitioner Career

Family nurse practitioners (FNPs) are highly regarded for their ability to manage diverse health conditions due to their comprehensive nursing approach and enhanced diagnostic and treatment abilities gained from additional medical training. This enables them to initially tackle any health issue that presents itself.

As an FNP, you possess the expertise to cater to patients across all age groups and in various primary care roles. Your duties will include assessing patients, making diagnoses, formulating treatment plans, and liaising with other healthcare providers and patients. The role of an FNP can be fulfilling, and here are five to consider this career path.

Reach Patients Across the World

The function of advanced practice nurses is still evolving globally, though it has already been established in certain nations. In regions where this role is still emerging, the type of advanced practice nursing roles typically recognized are midwives or nurse practitioners able to provide care for adults suffering from various health issues.

Family nurse practitioners fit this criterion effectively. However, one must obtain legal registration in another country. If your interest lies in serving international organizations such as Doctors Without Borders or the International Committee of the Red Cross, they prefer individuals capable of treating patients across all age groups and those with experience in emergency medicine.

Career Stability and a Bright Future

The role of a (FNP) is rapidly becoming one of the most in-demand professions. There are no indications of this trend abating anytime soon. Projections suggest that by 2026, there will be over 20,000 new job openings for FNPs, indicating a job growth rate of 36%.

The need for FNPs is escalating due to an aging population and a lack of healthcare providers. It’s estimated by the World Health Organization that there will be a deficit of more than 10 million primary healthcare providers by 2020, while healthcare visits are expected to increase by 15 to 20 million each year.

In this dire situation, FNPs can step up to bridge the gap in primary healthcare provision, given they are equipped with 90% of the necessary training and preparation for this role. A post master’s FNP certificate online program provides the necessary education and training for nurses to take on these roles and responsibilities, opening up new avenues for their professional growth.

Autonomy

In the United States, nurse practitioners hold a high level of respect. They often have the capacity to operate autonomously. You’ll have the authority to make clinical judgments for your patients independently, but you’ll also have the support of your peers if guidance is required. The degree of independence you can exercise depends on the practice rules of the state where you’re employed. Nonetheless, even in states with more stringent regulations, you’ll primarily be responsible for patient consultations.

Enhanced Adaptability

The demand for family nurse practitioners (FNP) is continually growing, adding value to their profession and allowing them to make choices that best suit their needs. They can determine their work schedules and choose their work locations. The imbalance of high demand and limited supply enhances the worth of their career.

FNPs can work from any geographical location they prefer. The universal high demand ensures job availability for FNPs across the globe, so relocation will never pose a problem for them as they are guaranteed a good job anywhere. This also provides FNPs with the autonomy to select their work environment. If working in large hospitals appears overwhelming, they can work in private care units, which offer lesser responsibilities and reduced work hours.

Salary

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median yearly salary of nurse practitioners is $110,930. There is a noticeable increase in income when transitioning from a registered nurse to a nurse practitioner. Registered nurses typically earn around $70,000 per year. This indicates they could see their salaries increase by over 55% if they decide to become a nurse practitioner based on official statistics.

Opting for a career as a family nurse practitioner is beneficial not only in terms of job opportunities but also in terms of remuneration. Numerous nurse practitioners can look forward to selecting well-paying jobs that provide substantial benefits.

Endnote

Pursuing a career as an FNP is a highly rewarding decision. These benefits highlight the expansive opportunities for career growth and diversification. This role allows you to cater to diverse patient needs while enjoying competitive remuneration. The popularity of the FNP specialization is not without reason, it’s all about the many options it offers