Why APRNs Must Embrace Technology for Future Practice Success

Future Implications of Technology-Enabled Advanced Practice Regulation and Growth: A Call to Participate

Numerous reports have supported the pivotal role of advanced practice nurses (APRNs) in technology-enabled systems. The impact is no less than the transformation of the healthcare system (IOM, 2011). APRNs have repeatedly been called to practice to the full extent of their license and education, spend more time with patients, and improve the care environment (Bolton et al., 2008). It is imperative for the future of APRN practice that the linkage between data and outcomes be collected to support these findings. Data have the potential to create strong evidence that APRN practice should be unchained to fulfill its full potential for the public.

Keeping our focus on technology use in advanced practice nursing will require a systems understanding of the relevant drivers of the data-driven future. While the patient is the center of advanced nursing practice, areas of focus for future monitoring and professional advocacy include:

Telehealth Reimbursement Models

Telehealth services have shown immense potential for addressing both physical and mental health challenges (Nagel & Penner, 2016; Schlachta-Fairchild, 2001). The future implications of technology in this area are profound. For APRNs to practice effectively and serve broader populations, payers must fully reimburse APRN visits. During the COVID-19 pandemic, many states relaxed or eliminated regulatory burdens in APRN practice to better serve the public. Advocacy groups are pressing for the maintenance of these advances post-pandemic (NCSBN, 2021).

Telehealth presents the opportunity for APRNs to meet patients where they are, offering flexible care models that transcend geographic limitations. This shift also opens the door for APRNs to develop new skills, enhance their patient management capabilities, and stay at the forefront of a technologically enhanced healthcare system.

Integrating Telehealth and Informatics into APRN Curricula

Future APRNs must be prepared to use the full breadth of technology-enabled practice to keep pace with healthcare changes and influence policy directions (Guenther et al., 2021). Incorporating telehealth training into APRN curricula will equip new practitioners with the necessary skills to engage with patients through digital platforms. This also addresses the increasing difficulty of finding traditional preceptorships for students, as telehealth offers an alternative for gaining practical experience (Schweickert et al., 2018).

Ensuring that APRN students are well-versed in telehealth technology and informatics will prepare them for a digital healthcare environment. From managing electronic health records (EHR) to conducting remote consultations, the ability to navigate these platforms is essential for future-ready APRNs.

Standards and Interoperability

The future of technology-enabled APRN practice requires standardization and interoperability in healthcare technology. ANA advisories have emphasized that electronic health records (EHRs) and other health information technology (HIT) solutions must accurately capture nursing knowledge and data, contributing to patient outcomes across various healthcare settings (ANA, 2014).

For APRNs to fully leverage technology in their practice, ensuring that these systems are integrated and interoperable is critical. This standardization allows for more efficient sharing of patient information, better coordination of care, and improved clinical outcomes.

Increasing the Engagement of Nurses in Technology Design

APRNs, along with other frontline healthcare providers, must play a more active role in the design and evaluation of medical devices and health information technology products. This engagement will ensure that the tools developed are practical, user-friendly, and effectively enhance nursing practice (IOM, 2012).

APRNs bring a wealth of clinical experience that can guide the development of technology that directly impacts patient care. By working closely with developers, APRNs can help create systems that support better outcomes, streamline workflows, and improve overall care quality.

Aligning Data for Policy Decisions

There is an overwhelming need to better understand healthcare practices and trends that influence policy decisions (Cipriano, 2011). For APRNs to demonstrate the value of their practice, data must be aligned to show the direct correlation between advanced practice nursing and patient outcomes.

With more robust data collection and analysis, APRNs can advocate for policies that support their full scope of practice. This alignment of data will also help in making the case for reimbursement models that reflect the value APRNs bring to the healthcare system.

Creating Clear Regulatory Guidance

APRNs must be part of the conversation when it comes to developing clear regulatory guidelines that govern their practice. This includes areas such as peer review, nomenclature, practice settings, continuing education, and prescriptive authority (Pulcini et al., 2010). Regulatory bodies must also stay informed about the technology used in advanced practice nursing and its implications for practice.

For APRNs to practice at the top of their license, regulatory frameworks must evolve to reflect the integration of technology in healthcare. This will ensure that APRNs can continue to expand their role in patient care without unnecessary barriers.

FAQ

How can APRNs contribute to the future of healthcare through technology?
APRNs can contribute by actively engaging in the design and evaluation of healthcare technologies, advocating for policy changes that support technology-enabled practice, and ensuring they are proficient in telehealth and informatics.

What are the benefits of telehealth for APRNs?
Telehealth allows APRNs to reach more patients, especially in underserved areas, and offers flexibility in care delivery. It also provides an alternative training method for APRN students.

Why is data collection important for APRNs?
Data collection is critical to demonstrating the value of APRN practice, supporting evidence-based care, and influencing healthcare policy decisions.

How does technology affect APRN education?
Technology is integrated into APRN education to prepare students for a digital healthcare environment. This includes training in telehealth, informatics, and electronic health record management.

What role does regulatory guidance play in APRN practice?
Clear regulatory guidance ensures that APRNs can practice to the full extent of their education and license, particularly in a technology-enabled healthcare system.

In this evolving landscape, APRNs must embrace technology to secure their role in the future of healthcare. By participating in the development of technological solutions and advocating for data-driven policies, APRNs can help shape a healthcare system that values their contributions and enhances patient outcomes.