Preparing RNs for Primary Care: Value Added

The U.S. health care system needs a fundamental redesign, as the current model of care is not meeting the needs of the population for primary care. Factors affecting the primary care workforce include a decrease in primary care providers, an increase in the aging population with limited health insurance, and a decrease in health care access. With the current emphasis for primary care redesign and team-based care, RNs practicing with an expanded role are in a unique position to address the primary care crisis. However, limited data exist on the academic and clinical preparation of RNs to practice in an outpatient or primary care setting. This article describes an educational program for RNs hired to work in an expanded role in a primary care setting. [J Contin Educ Nurs. 2021;52(2):100-104.].