As more physicians move toward specialties and away from general care, there is a troubling lack of providers in this critical health-care sector. The need is even more urgent in light of the growing number of Americans who are suffering from chronic illnesses such as asthma, diabetes and hypertension and require long-term disease treatment and coordination of care. Many others who survive extraordinary medical interventions or trauma need sustaining care for the rest of their lives. The doctor of nursing practice (DNP) is a new level of clinical practice that is attracting a rapidly growing number of nursing professionals. This doctoral degree enables advanced-practice nurses to gain the knowledge and skills necessary to practice independently in every clinical setting. 

DNPs are the ideal candidates to fill the primary-care void and deliver a new, more comprehensive brand of care that starts with but goes well beyond conventional medical practice. In addition to expert diagnosis and treatment, DNP training places an emphasis on preventive care, risk reduction and promoting good health practices. These clinicians are peerless prevention specialists and coordinators of complex care. In other words, as a patient, you get the medical knowledge of a physician, with the added skills of a nursing professional. Read full story…