Like many western states, Utah has an increasing need for primary care providers in rural areas. MSN-prepared nurse practitioners are ideal for this role. Almost every county in Utah has been designated by the Health Resources and Services Administration as a Health Provider Shortage Area, so opportunities are likely to increase.
According to a study from Stanford University, the state of Utah is unique because more physicians are filling primary care roles there than in other western states. Projections through 2020, though, show that there will likely be a steady decline in primary care physicians, and NPs will be needed to fill the vacancies.
In addition to these shortages, Utah has a more urgent need for MSN-prepared nurse educators and geriatric specialists. The Utah Nurses Foundation views scholarship applicants pursuing advanced practice and other MSN specialties as high priority. Check out the Utah State Board of Nursing, Utah Nurses Association, and Utah Nurse Practitioners Association for more information.
Programs to consider:
Brigham Young University (Provo, UT). BYU offers an MSN in a much needed specialty - family nurse practitioner. Both urban and rural internships are available.
University of Utah (Salt Lake City, UT). University of Utah has a selection of advanced practice specialties (including geriatrics) and other MSN tracks including education and informatics.
