Advanced practice nursing and work site primary care: challenges for outcomes evaluation

Outcomes evaluation of primary care provided at the work site by advanced practice nurses (APNs) presents a unique challenge. While the practice of primary care serves individuals, the goals of primary care programs are frequently expected to affect the population of employees and dependents. The dual evaluation of patient-centered care and population-based care must therefore be considered. This article applies principles of evaluation to APN-managed primary care within the occupational setting and presents an example of an evaluation plan that incorporates both patient-centered and population-focused outcomes.