Stronger together: PA and APRN shared governance council drives transformational change

Area of Science:

• Healthcare professional collaboration
• Advanced practice in nursing and medicine

Background:

• Physician associates/assistants (PAs) and advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs) are integral to healthcare delivery.
• The growing number of PAs and APRNs presents opportunities for expanded collaboration beyond direct patient care.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore the benefits of a shared APRN/PA Council for clinician collaboration and satisfaction.
• To demonstrate how organizational support for such councils can lead to meaningful improvements.

Main Methods:

• The study focuses on the establishment and function of a shared APRN/PA Council.
• It highlights the council's role in addressing unique practice issues and implementing solutions.

Main Results:

• A shared council enables a collective voice for PAs and APRNs on practice-specific matters.
• Organizational support facilitates the implementation of solutions that improve the work environment.

Conclusions:

• Shared APRN/PA Councils enhance clinician collaboration and satisfaction.
• These councils are effective mechanisms for addressing challenges and improving the practice environment for PAs and APRNs.