Entrepreneurship: Assessing the Readiness of the New Jersey APN Workforce

There is an unprecedented opportunity to move advanced practice nurses (APNs) into primary care settings at a steady rate over the next 5 to 8 years. In addition, the opportunity for nurse-owned or nurse-led practices has never been greater. However, many APNs currently work in a structured environment where the employer focuses on the business aspects of the practice and the APN focuses primarily on clinical care. Often APNs are unaware of the entrepreneurial contribution they make to the practice. A Needs Assessment Survey was developed to better understand business and practice management knowledge and skills of APNs in New Jersey. The survey included 14 categories for competency development. Twelve of the 14 categories showed that APNs were at a novice or an advanced beginner level. APNs need to demonstrate their value and take a lead to help solve primary care access issues. This can only be accomplished if APNs are willing to seize the opportunity and overcome barriers and knowledge gaps through both formal and informal education to step out of their traditional positions into more independent roles.