Virginia has a strong need for primary healthcare providers in its many rural communities. The state also anticipates vigorous demand for healthcare workers who are qualified and experienced at caring for the elderly. It is predicted that almost 19 percent of the state's population will be over age 65 by the year 2030. Nurse practitioners who are willing to work in rural areas or who have experience in geriatrics have ample opportunities in the state of Virginia.
A recent survey of Virginia's nurse practitioners found that 62 percent are "very satisfied" with their jobs; most of the rest reported feeling "satisfied." Approximately one-third of Virginia's 6500-plus nurse practitioners work in hospitals. Ten percent work in ambulatory care settings.
In Virginia, nurse practitioners work closely with physicians. NPs must have a collaborative agreement with a local physician, which includes a written protocol that "describes the procedures to be followed and delegated medical acts…to be performed by the licensed nurse practitioner." NPs who wish to prescribe medication must have a separate practice agreement filled out with their collaborating doc.
According to Salary.com, the average annual salary for nurse practitioners in Virginia is $81,000 to $84,000.
Virginia nurses who want to become nurse practitioners can study online, through a program like Georgetown University's, or at one of these in-state institutions:
- George Mason University. Located in Fairfax, George Mason offers two master's-level NP programs: family nurse practitioner and adult care nurse practitioner. Both programs can be completed in two or three years.
- Virginia Commonwealth University. VCU offers a variety of master's-level NP programs: adult nurse practitioner (primary or acute care), pediatric nurse practitioner, psychiatric/mental health nurse practitioner, family nurse practitioner and women's health nurse practitioner. An accelerated master's program is available to students who don't yet have a nursing degree; students take courses at both the undergrad and graduate level to obtain a BSN and MSN.
- Old Dominion University. Old Dominion, located in Norfolk, has family nurse practitioner and women's health nurse practitioner programs. Family nurse practitioner students at Old Dominion participate in the Eastern Virginia Medical School's standardized/simulated patient teaching program.
Accredited schools with NP programs in Virginia:
