The Nation’s National Nurse Practitioner Organizations Respond to the Department of Education’s Proposed Rule

In response to the release of the Department of Education’s proposed rule, our collective organizations express our concern for the future workforce, and deep disappointment in the Department of Education. The proposed rule diminishes the incredible work of nurse practitioners (NPs) across the country, and in doing so puts access to NP programs at risk. Adequate access to funding is an essential component in ensuring our nation’s health care system is strong and that patients have access to care.

During this comment period, we will express our collective views to the Department, backed by evidence and a clear focus on preserving patients' access to care for generations to come — and we encourage others to do so as well. Today and every day, NPs provide high-quality care in nearly every health care setting, in every community in the country. Embracing individuals who desire to provide care means supporting their educational aspirations. It is critical that the Department of Education include NP programs in the definition of “professional degree,” creating a pathway for these individuals to access the necessary funding for their education. Together we call on the Department of Education to amend their proposal and include NP programs in this definition.

American Association of Nurse Practitioners
Gerontological Advanced Practice Nurses Association
National Association of Nurse Practitioners in Women’s Health
National Association of Pediatric Nurse Practitioners
National Organization of Nurse Practitioner Faculties