Tag: NP jobs

To address critical shortages in the U.S. healthcare workforce, the Biden-Harris administration recently announced a substantial investment of nearly $100 million to expand the number of healthcare providers, including nurses, nurse practitioners, physicians, and behavioral health professionals. This funding, administered through the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA), will be used to recruit and train healthcare professionals in underserved communities, offering significant growth in job opportunities for healthcare providers across various fields.

Key elements of this initiative include over $19 million dedicated to increasing the nursing workforce in acute and long-term care settings, as well as nearly $12 million aimed at boosting the number of primary care physicians in high-need areas like rural and tribal communities. Additionally, the funding will enhance behavioral health services by providing more than $63 million to train peer support specialists and community health workers to support families impacted by the opioid crisis. Pediatric care will also benefit from an additional $4.6 million aimed at integrating mental health services into pediatric practices.

Strengthening the Nursing Workforce

A significant portion of the funding—over $19 million—is allocated to expanding the nursing workforce, particularly in acute and long-term care settings. This initiative is expected to increase the number of qualified nurses, which includes nurse practitioners (NPs) who can provide a range of services in both primary and specialty care. Nurse practitioners play an especially vital role in delivering primary care services, often serving as the primary healthcare provider in rural and underserved areas. This push to increase their numbers will create more job openings, ensuring that communities lacking healthcare access receive the support they need.

More Opportunities Await for APPs and Physicians

With nearly $12 million directed toward boosting the number of primary care physicians, this funding is also aimed at placing more doctors in high-need areas such as rural and tribal communities. In addition to physicians, the growing demand for Advanced Practice Providers (APPs) like nurse practitioners and physician assistants (PAs) will see a rise in job openings, as they are critical in providing accessible primary care. APPs can fill gaps in healthcare services, often performing roles traditionally held by physicians, making their recruitment a priority in high-need regions.

Addressing Behavioral Health Needs Amid the Opioid Crisis

Another key focus of the funding is addressing the mental health needs of families impacted by the opioid crisis. Over $63 million has been allocated to train peer support specialists, behavioral health workers, and other community-based providers. This is especially critical given the rising demand for mental health services. Psychiatric nurse practitioners (PMHNPs), PAs, and other mental health providers will play an essential role in supporting children and families affected by substance use disorders. This aspect of the funding presents a wealth of opportunities for professionals specializing in mental and behavioral health to find employment in both clinical and community settings​

Find Your Perfect Healthcare Job with Momentum

At Momentum, we specialize in healthcare recruitment and are excited to connect qualified professionals with the many opportunities generated by this new federal initiative. Whether you’re a nurse practitioner, physician, physician assistant, or behavioral health provider, we have a wide range of job openings that align with the areas covered in this article, including primary care, mental health, telemedicine, and underserved community placements. We’re dedicated to helping healthcare providers find fulfilling roles that make a real impact. Explore our latest opportunities and let us help you take the next step in your healthcare career.

Sources:

voice.ons.org
hhs.gov
openai.com

If you’re in the medical field (or even if you aren’t) you know there’s a high demand for excellent practitioners right now. Shortages around the country are leaving hospitals and private practices alike understaffed, with an estimated 83 million Americans living in areas without a primary care provider. The news isn’t all storm clouds, though, especially for nurse practitioners, who have several avenues and a high demand in each one.

Because of the versatile nature of their training, nurse practitioners are able to jump into a lot of different positions and roles. Although they are not doctors, nurse practitioners are able to perform physical exams, order and interpret lab results, x-rays, and tests, diagnose and treat illness and conditions, prescribe medication, perform long-term care, and provide counseling and education on wellness. In some states, nurse practitioners can even open and operate their own private practice independent of doctors.

FNP: Family Nurse Practitioner

One of the highest in-demand positions for a nurse practitioner right now is a family practice nurse practitioner. 17,000 to 48,000 physicians are estimated to leave family medicine by the year 2034, leaving especially rural areas in great shortage. An FNP provides patients with care just as a physician would, with special attention towards preventative care and overall health. Patients are able to see a nurse practitioner for regular physical exams, medicine prescriptions, and chronic illness management.

Psychiatric Care

After COVID, psychiatric care and mental health services skyrocketed, as did the need for more medical professionals. However, even before the pandemic, nurse practitioners were in high demand for psychiatric mental health roles. In this line of specialty, a nurse practitioner would focus on mental health issues in the same way a psychiatrist does; counseling, providing treatment plans, and prescribing medication as needed. Illnesses and disorders that a nurse practitioner can address are depression, anxiety, substance abuse, dementia, autism spectrum disorder, and many more.

Geriatric Care

One of the most skill-demanding positions a nurse practitioner can hold is in the adult gerontology acute care field. This particular field doesn’t just focus on adults, but older adults who are experiencing complex health issues in an in-patient setting such as a hospital or long-term care facilities. As the population ages, this particular role is in very high demand. NPs who serve the elderly community have a deep understanding of the aging process and how it is affected by medicine. They are also an advocate for their patients and their families in support of their treatment plans and decisions.

Pediatric Primary Care

Lastly, nurse practitioners are highly needed in the area of pediatric primary care. They treat children from birth to age 21 and specialize in the health and wellness of their young patients. Pediatric nurse practitioners are able to assess and treat, prescribe medicine, and council patients and families. Many PCPs work in a physician’s office, but they can also work in hospitals, community health centers, urgent care centers, long-term care facilities, or behavioral health service centers. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, PNPs have a job outlook of  38% until the year 2032.

Although these are some of the most in-demand positions for a nurse practitioner this year, there are so many other areas and specialties for NPs to explore, and each one needs incredible, compassionate, and well-trained professionals. Nurse practitioners can take their pick.

Best NP Job Board and Recruiting Company

As a healthcare recruiting company, we understand the crucial role nurse practitioners play in today’s medical landscape. With a growing demand for healthcare services across various specialties, it’s essential to have qualified, compassionate, and skilled professionals to fill these roles. Whether you are a nurse practitioner seeking a new opportunity or a healthcare facility in need of exceptional talent, we are here to help. Momentum’s healthcare recruiting team specializes in connecting healthcare professionals with organizations that value their expertise and commitment to patient care. Contact us today to learn how we can support your career or staffing needs in this evolving field.

Sources:

Nursingprocess.org
Bls.gov
Forbes.com
psychologytoday.com
nurse.org
nursejournal.org
openai.com

Federal legislation such as the ICAN Act (H.R. 8812 and S. 5212) aims to remove practice barriers for Nurse Practitioners (NPs). If passed, these bills would expand NPs’ authority to perform more comprehensive healthcare services, including roles traditionally reserved for physicians. This includes certifying the need for inpatient services, performing physical exams in skilled nursing facilities, and more​​.

Additionally, other states are enacting healthcare-related laws. For example, Missouri introduced bills (MO SB79 and MO HB271) to grant full practice authority to NPs, allowing them to work independently without physician oversight. ​

In April, Washington Governor Jay Inslee signed a staffing law to address the healthcare worker shortage. This legislation mandates that hospitals adhere to specific staffing standards and establish staffing committees, including nursing staff and administrators, by January 1. These committees are responsible for approving annual staffing plans, which must be submitted to state officials by 2025. Hospitals falling below 80% compliance with these plans are required to report their noncompliance. Subsequently, the state departments of health and labor and industries will assign corrective action plans to these hospitals. Failure to comply with these corrective plans could result in fines of $50,000 per month​

These changes reflect ongoing efforts to address healthcare access and provider shortages across the country

$25 Minimum Wage – SB 525

Sen. Maria Elena Durazo proposed delaying the $25 minimum wage for California’s lowest-paid health care workers to align with the state fiscal year and allow more time for budget discussions. Gov. Gavin Newsom, who signed the law last fall, suggested a delay due to the state’s budget shortfall. With the wage increase set for June 1, many health workers remain uncertain about their pay raises, though some have already been notified of increases.

Newsom’s recent budget proposal indicates ongoing negotiations to adjust the wage law, with a promised deal before the budget is signed. SEIU-UHW, the union behind the law, launched an ad campaign emphasizing the importance of the wage increase amid worker confusion. The governor proposed tying wage increases to the state’s budget, facing a $27.6 billion deficit, with the wage hike potentially costing around $4 billion annually, although the UC Berkeley Labor Center estimates lower costs.

Despite potential changes, some employers are proceeding with the wage increases. The California Hospitals Association and the California Kidney Care Alliance confirmed compliance with the law, and health workers are set to receive between $18 to $23 an hour starting next month, with the full $25 phased in over the years. Some health systems, like UC Health and Kaweah Health Medical Center, have already raised wages to stay competitive and retain employees.

The $25 minimum wage law for California’s lowest-paid healthcare workers specifically applies to a wide range of workers in the healthcare sector. This includes:

•         Hospital workers
•         Dialysis clinic workers
•         Home health aides
•         Nursing assistants
•         Medical technicians
•         Support staff such as janitors and food service workers within healthcare facilities

The law is aimed at ensuring that these essential but often underpaid workers receive a living wage, which will be phased in over several years until it reaches $25 per hour.

Professional Healthcare Staffing Agency

As new staffing legislation underscores the critical need for adequate healthcare staffing, our role as a healthcare staffing company becomes even more vital. By ensuring hospitals can meet the mandated staffing standards, we help improve patient care and reduce the burden on existing healthcare workers. Momentum’s team of experienced professionals is ready to support hospitals in forming effective staffing committees, devising robust staffing plans, and maintaining compliance to avoid hefty fines. Partner with us to navigate these regulatory changes seamlessly and ensure your facility is well-equipped to provide exceptional patient care. Together, we can address the healthcare worker shortage and build a stronger, more resilient healthcare system.

For more information on how we can assist, contact us today.

Sources:

Calmatters.org
beckershospitalreview.com
nurse.org
openai.com

Choosing a new position in family medicine is a critical decision that can significantly impact both a physician’s professional satisfaction and personal well-being. Given the broad scope and demanding nature of family medicine, it is essential for physicians to be selective in their job search. The right position should align with their career goals, provide a supportive work environment, and offer a balanced lifestyle. Being choosy allows family medicine physicians to find opportunities that not only enhance their professional growth but also ensure they can deliver high-quality care to their patients while maintaining a fulfilling personal life. Making an informed and thoughtful choice can lead to long-term job satisfaction and a successful, sustainable career in family medicine.

When finding a new position in family medicine, doctors need to consider several specific factors to ensure the role aligns with their professional and personal needs. These factors include:

Practice Setting:

Determine if the practice is in a solo, group, or multi-specialty setting.

Evaluate the size and structure of the practice, and how it fits with your preferred work style.

Patient Population:

Understand the demographics and health needs of the patient population.

Consider if the practice serves a community with diverse medical needs that align with your expertise and interests.

Workload and Schedule:

Clarify the expected patient volume and types of cases handled daily.

Inquire about the work schedule, including typical hours, on-call duties, and weekend shifts.

Clinical Support and Resources:

Assess the availability and quality of support staff, including nurses, medical assistants, and administrative personnel.

Evaluate access to diagnostic and treatment resources, including electronic health records (EHR) systems.

Professional Development:

Look for opportunities for continuing medical education (CME) and professional growth.

Check if the practice supports participation in conferences, workshops, and additional certifications.

Compensation and Benefits:

Review the salary structure, including base pay, bonuses, and incentives in the city where the position is located. As of May 21, 2024, the average annual salary for a Family Physician in California is $208,231. This equates to roughly $100.11 per hour, $4,004 per week, or $17,352 per month.

Examine the benefits package, including health insurance, retirement plans, malpractice insurance, and any loan repayment programs.

Work-Life Balance:

Investigate the practice’s policies on work-life balance and flexible scheduling.

Consider the potential for part-time work or job-sharing arrangements if desired.

Practice Management and Autonomy:

Understand the level of autonomy you will have in patient care decisions.

Evaluate the administrative workload and the practice’s approach to managing it.

Community and Lifestyle:

Consider the location of the practice and the quality of life in the surrounding community.

Look for amenities such as good schools, recreational activities, and housing options that suit your lifestyle.

Organizational Culture:

Assess the practice’s culture and values to ensure they align with your own.

Evaluate the collegiality and supportiveness of potential colleagues.

Reputation and Stability:

Research the practice’s reputation within the medical community and among patients.

Consider the financial stability and long-term viability of the practice.

Quality of Care and Patient Philosophy:

Ensure the practice’s approach to patient care aligns with your own philosophy and standards.

Look for practices that prioritize high-quality, patient-centered care.

Permanent vs. Locum Tenens Placement:

Decide if you prefer a permanent position or a locum tenens placement.

Evaluate the benefits and drawbacks of each, such as job stability versus flexibility and variety.

By carefully evaluating these factors, family medicine doctors can find positions that not only advance their careers but also support their overall well-being and job satisfaction.

Family medicine offers the opportunity to provide comprehensive, lifelong care, build a practice that reflects your interests, emphasize preventive health, enjoy job stability and a balanced life, address social health determinants, continuously learn, gain community support, and find personal fulfillment in helping patients thrive. Looking for a new family medicine position at the perfect hospital, private practice, VA center, or urgent care? Search now or give Momentum a call.

Sources:

aafp.org
ziprecruiter.com
openai.com

The aging U.S. population is driving rapid growth in the healthcare sector, particularly in roles like home health and personal care aides. These positions, which typically require a high school diploma, are projected to see substantial increases in demand over the next decade. The shift towards in-home care has been accelerated by factors like the COVID-19 pandemic, which has made nursing homes less desirable for many. While nurse practitioner roles are also experiencing significant growth in most states, the highest job opportunities in healthcare in the coming years are expected to be in home health and personal care aide positions, particularly in states like California. This analysis, based on Bureau of Labor Statistics data, sheds light on the evolving landscape of healthcare employment in the U.S.

Healthcare Sector Added 56,000 New Jobs in April

In April, the healthcare sector added 56,000 new jobs, marking a 22% decrease from March but consistent with monthly averages over the past year. Despite the slowdown, healthcare accounted for nearly one-third of the 175,000 jobs created in the larger economy for April.

The healthcare industry has rebounded to pre-pandemic employment levels, with significant job growth observed particularly in ambulatory care services and hospitals. However, despite this growth, demand for healthcare services continues to outpace job creation. Challenges include the need to adapt to changing patient preferences, embrace technology, and address labor shortages. Job openings in healthcare and social assistance are at a high, indicating a persistent gap between demand and supply. Nursing and residential care facilities still face a hiring lag due to patients seeking alternative care options. Healthcare organizations may need to explore collaborations, technology integration, and operational efficiencies to meet increasing demand with limited resources.

Finding Your Dream Healthcare Job with Momentum

Find your perfect healthcare match with us! We’re currently working with amazing hospitals and private practices to fill a variety of openings in the areas of neonatal care, anesthesiology, dentistry, physical medicine and much more. Find all openings at momentumhcs.com/jobs.

Sources:

Thedesertreview.com
Healthleadersmedia.com
Advisory.com
openai.com

Estimates show that by 2050, the number of Americans over 85 will be about 19 million. Nursing homes will need more help than ever from skilled Nurse Practitioners who love their job.

What are Nurse Practitioners, and what are their roles in nursing home facilities? How do their jobs differ from that of registered nurses and physicians? What are the benefits of working in a nursing home versus a hospital or doctor’s office?

Who Are Nurse Practitioners?

Patients often go to Nurse Practitioners (NPs) for their health needs rather than physicians. Nurse Practitioners bring a personal touch to healthcare that some physicians can’t offer.

NPs begin their careers as registered nurses (RNs). They must go on to complete a master’s degree, and some get a doctoral degree as well. They must also complete advanced clinical training outside of their nursing preparation.

Similar to doctors, Nurse Practitioners can diagnose and treat medical conditions. They also work with patients to manage their health and prevent diseases.

Here are some things NPs can do:

•     Diagnostic testing
•     Diagnosing & treating both chronic & acute conditions
•     Prescribing medications
•     Prevention education
•     Counseling

What Can NPs Expect While Working in a Nursing Home?

Nurse Practitioners are involved in all aspects of a nursing home patient’s medical visit. They don’t just act as medical providers for the patient’s physical health; they also care for the patient’s psychiatric health.

NPs work with nursing home patients whenever they need regular checkups. They also see the patients when they get sick and can discharge them from the nursing home.

The goal of NPs in nursing homes is to help their patients recover and keep them out of hospitals.

These are some everyday tasks in nursing homes:

•     Reviewing past medical history
•     Ordering, approving, & performing testing
•     Prescribing medication
•     Performing follow-up appointments
•     Developing a care plan
•     Planning for advanced care as the patient’s condition changes
•     Discharging patients
•     Performing reviews to get patients more time in the nursing home
•     Reviewing & signing documents
•     Educating staff members

Nurse Practitioners are qualified to perform many of the tasks that doctors can. They help take the load off of doctors so they can focus on other tasks that NPs are not qualified for.

NPs often work after-hours or on-call when the doctor is not working. They will call the doctor for opinions and support when needed.

Steve, an APRN, says Nurse Practitioners in nursing homes don’t usually have strictly set hours. As long as the NP sees their required patients daily and weekly, the facility is unlikely to track their total hours worked.

Nursing home work is often more structured despite not having strict hours. NPs generally have a routine to follow every day that they wouldn’t have in a hospital setting.

Despite having structure, NPs rarely get bored working in nursing homes. Rebecca Lee, a registered nurse (RN), says, “Nursing homes are basically a generalized internal medicine unit.” Nurse Practitioners see all kinds of conditions, offering variety to their days.

NPs working in nursing homes form a better sense of community with their patients. They see and work with the residents and their families regularly. NPs build relationships with these people that they wouldn’t get in other settings.

Conclusion

Michael Mileski et al. says that having Nurse Practitioners in nursing homes reduces the rehospitalization of patients and increases their chances of recovery. NPs respond to their patients quickly, spend lots of time with them, and perform more comprehensive evaluations.

In other words, Nurse Practitioners are invaluable assets for nursing homes and their patients. Besides that, they are often great places to work, especially for NPs who enjoy building long-lasting relationships with their patients.

Looking for the Perfect NP Opportunity in a Nursing Home?

Do you wish to work as an NP in a nursing home or similar environment? At Momentum Healthcare staffing, we help find your perfect job match. We are constantly adding new positions to our job board, from Locum Tenens to permanent opportunities. Please contact us if you would like us to help match you!