A review of third-party reimbursement issues for advanced practice nurses

1. Dramatic increase in health care costs are attributed to a previously unlimited reimbursement structure for health care organizations and physicians, coupled with a focus on acute, high-technologic, and tertiary care. 2. Advanced practice nurses (APNs) have demonstrated the ability to positively affect patient outcomes through the provision of high quality, accessible, and cost-effective care. 3. The nursing profession has continued to endure a disproportionate struggle to gain third-party reimbursement. APNs must educate the public about their role and continue lobbying for legislation that mandates third-party reimbursement.