The Health Care Home in Primary Care: A Call for Enhanced NP Competencies

The Health Care Home in Primary Care: A Call for Enhanced NP Competencies

Abstract:

Factors, such as the Institute of Medicine's call for nurses to be full partners with physicians and other health professionals in redesigning health care (2010), the projected shortage of primary care providers, the predicted influx of insured individuals needing primary health care by 2014, and the aging of the population, have created the perfect storm for nurse practitioners (NP) to take the lead as directors of the health care home in primary care. Health care homes, including the patient-centered medical home and the independence at home initiatives, expand on traditional primary care functions to better coordinate care for patients with complex needs while maintaining quality and cost-effectiveness. NP providers are leading these initiatives that incorporate a collaborative team approach, use health information technology, and innovative care delivery strategies. To prepare these NP leaders, NP faculty must have an understanding of these health care home initiatives and the associated significant curriculum implications they will requires.

This presentation will present current evidence for the health care home, including both the PCMH and the independence at home delivery systems with emphasis on the essential components of these initiatives. Strategies will be given as to how best to integrate these deliver care systems within the primary care NP domains and core competencies. The new knowledge and roles required for NPs to function effectively in these new care delivery systems will also be emphasized.