Advanced Practice Nursing
About Advanced Practice Registered Nurses
Advanced Practice Registered Nurses (APRN) have advanced education and clinical training, a Master’s or Doctoral degree in nursing, are nationally board certified and hold advanced licensure and scope of practice beyond that of registered nurses. The four types of APRNs are Nurse Practitioner (NP), Certified Nurse Midwife (CNM), Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA) and Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS).
APRNs play a crucial role in providing high-quality, accessible care, especially in rural healthcare settings. Indian Health Service is known as one of the first in history to utilize APRNs to the full extent of their licensure and training to meet the needs of rural communities where physician shortages are the greatest. Today, APRNs continue to enjoy rewarding roles working at the top of their license across the country in all clinical areas in both the inpatient and outpatient settings.
APRN at IHS
The IHS APRN Program is under the Division of Nursing Services (DNS) and Office of Clinical and Preventive Services (OCPS) in the Indian Health Service Headquarters located in Rockville, Maryland.
Mission
The mission of the Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN) Program is to position Indian Health Service as a leading employer of APRNs, through innovation and leadership, the program initiatives aim to attract, retain, and empower the best talent in advanced practice nursing. Aligned with the Indian Health Service Strategic Plan, the program demonstrates a commitment to providing APRNs with the opportunities to enhance their clinical expertise, foster professional growth, and make a meaningful impact on the health and well-being of American Indian and Alaska Native communities.
Vision
The Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN) Program aims to set the standard in the employment of APRNs, ensuring the APRN workforce is diverse, highly skilled, and positioned to drive the future of healthcare. Envisioning Indian Health Service as a health system where APRNs are recognized as key leaders in high quality, evidence based clinical care and health policy who have resources, support and opportunities to excel and lead in a dynamic healthcare environment.
