2016 Neonatal Nurse Practitioner Workforce Survey: Report of Findings

Area of Science:

• Healthcare Workforce Studies
• Nursing Practice
• Neonatal Care

Background:

• The National Association of Neonatal Nurse Practitioners (NANNP) conducted its second national workforce survey in 2016.
• Neonatal Nurse Practitioners (NNPs) represent approximately 3% of the over 205,000 practicing nurse practitioners in the U.S.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the current workforce status of NNPs, including vacancy rates, compensation, and benefits.
• To identify factors influencing the recruitment and retention of NNPs.
• To provide data for addressing the NNP workforce crisis.

Main Methods:

• An electronic survey with 69 questions was administered to certified NNPs in the fall of 2016.
• Collaboration with the National Certification Corporation and the American Association of Nurse Practitioners facilitated the survey distribution.
• The survey focused on practice sites, total compensation packages (including benefits), and workforce deficits.

Main Results:

• A rising vacancy rate for NNP positions was observed across the country.
• The southeastern U.S. regions (4 and 11) reported the lowest compensation rates for NNPs.
• New graduate NNPs with a doctorate degree showed a trend of higher earnings.

Conclusions:

• Tailoring benefit packages to NNP age and experience is crucial for recruitment and retention.
• Strategies such as shorter shifts, enhanced retirement plan matching, and reduced health insurance cost-sharing appeal to experienced NNPs.
• Continuous evaluation of NNP workforce data is critical for developing sustainable solutions to workforce shortages.