The changing landscape of nephrology physician assistants and nurse practitioners

Background Physician assistants (PAs) and nurse practitioners (NPs) have expanded roles in nephrology as both the patient load and acuity of care needed for this population have increased. Purpose To evaluate workforce patterns of PAs and NPs working in nephrology over the past decade. Methods Using the biannual survey from the National Kidney Foundation Council of Advanced Practitioners, data were collected and analyzed over the past decade. Results Surveys of nephrology practitioners show the evolution of the dialysis-centralized practitioner to one encompassing all aspects of nephrology: hospital, intensive care unit, research, office, and all types of dialysis. Salaries and benefits have increased to compensate for the expansion of responsibilities. Implications for practice Physician assistants and NPs in nephrology have the opportunity to use their skills and training in caring for this high-risk population.