Does an increase in nurse practitioners in rural and underserved communities increase healthcare access?

Studies have shown an increase in registered nurses across the country can lead to better access to healthcare in rural and underserved communities.

One study found that nurse practitioners “can deliver most of the services that physicians provide,” and the Journal for Nurse Practitioners found their care is “equivalent” to that of physicians.

Outside of medical care at dedicated centers, a report from the National Academies of Science, Engineering and Medicine said nurse practitioners often enhance public health through at-home check-ups as well as care at schools in low-income communities.

Georgia allows nurses to practice at a restricted scope of practice, according to the KFF, due to state statute. In rural and underserved communities, the limited scope of practice is exacerbated by a reduction of hospitals in rural areas. Since 2010, the state has lost nine rural hospitals, according to the Georgia Recorder.