The Growing Role of Nurse Practitioners in Caring for the Aging Population

As the number of geriatricians declines and the aging population continues to rise, nurse practitioners are becoming vital in delivering healthcare to older adults. The demand for geriatric specialists is projected to increase dramatically, with estimates showing a 50% surge from 2018 to 2030, coinciding with the aging of the baby boomer generation. By that time, many geriatricians are expected to retire or leave the field, reducing the total workforce to fewer than 7,600, with few new doctors entering the specialty.

This gap in specialized care places greater responsibility on primary care physicians and nurse practitioners, the latter of whom have seen their numbers more than triple since 2010. According to a 2024 survey, approximately 15% of the 431,000 licensed nurse practitioners are certified to treat older adults. Experts like Laura Wagner, a nursing professor at the University of California-San Francisco, emphasize that nurse practitioners are not aiming to replace doctors but to complement healthcare delivery, especially where resources are limited.

Nurse practitioners possess advanced training that enables them to diagnose, order diagnostic tests, and prescribe medications. Their role has significantly expanded in primary care settings, including geriatrics. In some states and Washington, D.C., nurse practitioners can practice independently, but elsewhere, they require collaborative agreements or supervision. While Medicare reimbursements for NP-provided care are typically lower than for physicians, research has shown that patient outcomes with nurse practitioners are comparable or better, often at reduced costs.

Recent legislative changes reflect a trend toward granting nurse practitioners greater autonomy. Since 2021, five states have granted full practice authority, with Utah being the latest in 2023. However, legislative battles continue, with some states resisting expansion due to concerns about scope of practice and the need for comprehensive clinical training.

Overall, nurse practitioners are stepping into a crucial role in meeting the healthcare needs of an aging population, filling the void left by the shrinking geriatrician workforce and expanding access to quality care for older adults.