Kathy Johnson: Too few physicians

I recently read Dr. David Tayloe’s March 23 letter “A step too far” in response to Deborah Varnam’s March 13 Point of View “Autonomy for nurse practitioners.”

I have known Tayloe for many years and have tremendous respect for him and his outstanding practice. His support of nurse practitioners has long been evident.

In my 43 years as a nurse practitioner, I have never wanted to practice autonomously. I have frequently begged for more physician time at the places I have practiced. However, these have always been rural and under-served sites in Madison, Granville, Wilkes and Wayne counties, and there were not any physicians practicing in these rural areas.

Tayloe is right that it is a matter of maldistribution. In my early years of practice, it was relatively easy to find a physician who would “supervise,” sign charts when that was required and be available to collaborate. However, this is now harder to find, and many who do agree are charging very high fees to do it. This is decreasing access to care for patients.

There have been many studies documenting the safe practice of NPs, and in the 21 states that allow NPs a full scope of practice, there has not been any increase in errors for patients or complaints.

This story was originally published April 11, 2016 at 6:04 PM with the headline "Kathy Johnson: Too few physicians."