Dermatology Community Celebrates Nurse Practitioners This NP Week

Each year, the second week of November is celebrated as Nurse Practitioner (NP) Week. This week's celebration of NP contributions in their respective fields and specialties takes place from November 12-18.

According to the American Association of Nurse Practitioners (AANP), "National Nurse Practitioner Week is held annually to celebrate these exceptional health care providers and to remind lawmakers of the importance of removing outdated barriers to practice so nurse practitioners will be allowed to practice to the full extent of their experience and education."¹

The AANP also estimates that there are more than 355,000 licensed NPs practicing in the US.¹

The US Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates that nearly half of all NPs in the US practice in physician offices. From 2022 to 2032, the Bureau projects that NP employment will increase by 45%.²

View the AANP NP Week proclamation here.

The Society of Dermatology Physician Assistants (SDPA) has also issued a statement³ in celebration of the dermatology NP community.

“Nurse practitioners contribute critical expertise, knowledge, and dedication to the healthcare team, ensuring quality patient care. Through our collaborative efforts, patients gain greater access to healthcare services and the care they need, resulting in superior outcomes. This invaluable partnership is crucial, and we extend our appreciation to NPs not only during Nurse Practitioner Week, but throughout the year," said SDPA Board of Directors President Laura Bush, DMSc, PA-C, DFAAPA.³

“Derm PAs and NPs play an important role within the expanding medical community, responding to the increasing demand for care driven by advancements in education, medicine, and the aging population," Bush said. "Our commitment extends beyond clinical practice, encompassing a relentless pursuit of knowledge and ongoing skill development essential to staying abreast of the dynamic landscape of medicine."

References

1. NP Week. American Association of Nurse Practitioners. (n.d.). https://www.aanp.org/about/about-the-american-association-of-nurse-practitioners-aanp/media/np-week
2. A look at nurse practitioners for national nurse practitioner week. U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Accessed November 15, 2023. https://www.bls.gov/opub/ted/2023/a-look-at-nurse-practitioners-for-national-nurse-practitioner-week.htm#:~:text=In%20celebration%20of%20National%20Nurse,U.S.%20average%20wage%20of%20%2461%2C900.
3. SDPA celebrates nurse practitioners November 12-18, 2023. November 13, 2023. Accessed November 15, 2023. https://www.dermpa.org/news/657728/SDPA-Celebrates-Nurse-Practitioners-November-12-18-2023.htm.