7 Ways NPs Improve Healthcare in 2026
Happy National Nurse Practitioner Week
Nurse practitioners (NPs) have been serving as leaders, innovators and advocates for community health for more than 60 years. With their advanced clinical training and patient-centered approach, they provide high-quality care that helps expand access across primary care, specialty care, rural communities and underserved areas.
2026 National Nurse Practitioner Week will be celebrated November 8–14, 2026. It’s a great opportunity to recognize the impact NPs make every day for patients, care teams and communities nationwide.
7 Ways Nurse Practitioners Enhance Healthcare
1. The NP Workforce Continues to Grow.
According to AANP’s 2026 research snapshot, there were 461,246 licensed NPs in the U.S. as of 2025, up from 431,410 in 2023 and 355,069 in 2021. That growth helps strengthen access to care as healthcare systems continue to face provider shortages.
2. NPs Help Improve Access to Timely Care.
NPs are a key part of the solution to the nation’s access challenges, especially in primary care and underserved communities. NPs provide accessible, high-quality, affordable, patient-centered care for millions of Americans.
3. NPs Are Trusted Prescribers and Clinical Decisionmakers.
The latest AANP Practice Report continues to track NP prescribing, diagnosis and patient care patterns, reinforcing the central role NPs play in day-to-day clinical care.
4. NPs Support Team-based, Whole-person Care.
NPs are trained to diagnose and treat acute and chronic conditions, emphasize prevention, and support patients in making informed healthcare decisions. Their care model aligns well with team-based and population health strategies.
5. NP Practice Authority Continues to Expand.
There are currently 28 states and Washington, D.C. allowing Full Practice Authority (FPA) for NPs. The momentum behind FPA and reduced barriers to care remains a major factor in the growing role of NPs, helping healthcare organizations extend care capacity and improve patient access.
6. NPs Bring a Patient-centered Approach to Healthcare.
NPs are known for focusing on the health and well-being of the whole person, combining clinical expertise with education, prevention and long-term relationship building. That approach continues to resonate with patients and employers alike.
7. NPs Are Making a Measurable Impact Across the Healthcare System.
From hospitals and outpatient clinics to long-term care and community settings, NPs serve in a wide range of care environments. Their versatility helps organizations improve coverage, continuity and patient experience.
Nurse practitioners contribute across both primary care and specialty medicine, helping healthcare organizations meet patient demand while enabling physicians and care teams to work at the top of their training.
During National Nurse Practitioner Week 2026, AMN Healthcare proudly recognizes the NPs making a meaningful difference in healthcare every day.
