Rural-Urban Practice Patterns of Nurse Practitioners in Washington State

Comparing characteristics and practice patterns of Washington nurse practitioners (NPs) in urban and rural settings furthers understanding of NP contributions to rural health care. Data were collected in 2006 using a statewide survey of Washington NPs. Rural NPs were more likely to be certified in family practice, provide primary care, and care for 12 more total patients per week than urban NPs. Additional research on rural NP practice nationwide could provide the foundation for developing innovative solutions for the recruitment and retention of NPs in rural areas to improve access to care.