The Impact of Nurse Practitioner Full Practice Authority on Pediatric Care Experiences: A National Secondary Data Analysis
Abstract
Pediatric primary care access in the United States is hindered by pediatrician shortages, particularly in underserved and rural areas. Nurse practitioners (NPs), especially pediatric NPs, play an essential role to meet the demand for care in pediatric populations. However, little is known about how full practice authority (FPA) for NPs affects pediatric care experiences.
FPA may enhance pediatric care experiences, particularly in non-rural areas. Targeted investments in rural infrastructure and further pediatric-specific evaluations are needed to optimize the impact of scope-of-practice reform.
Keywords
Nurse practitioners, Pediatrics
Publication Date
2026
Document Type
Article
Place of Original Publication
Journal of Pediatric Health Care
Publication Information
40 Journal of Pediatric Health Care 251 (2026)
Repository Citation
Mehlman, Maxwell J.; Fiizpatrick, Joyce j.; Plemmons, Alicia; Duffy, Evelyn G.; Voturuba, Mark; Gerlick, Joshua A.; Davis, Summer; and Norgul, Allison A., "The Impact of Nurse Practitioner Full Practice Authority on Pediatric Care Experiences: A National Secondary Data Analysis" (2026). Faculty Publications. 2367.
https://scholarlycommons.law.case.edu/faculty_publications/2367
