Abstract: SA-PO203
The 2018 NKF Survey of Nephrology Advanced Practitioners
Session Information
- Educational Research
October 27, 2018 | Location: Exhibit Hall, San Diego Convention Center
Abstract Time: 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Category: Educational Research
- 800 Educational Research
Authors
- Zuber, Kim, American Academy of Nephrology PAs, Oceanside, California, United States
- Erickson, Kevin F., Baylor College of Medicine, Bellaire, Texas, United States
- Davis, Jane S., University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, United States
Background
For the last 10 years, NKF has administered a biannual online survey open to all nephrology APs asking about demographics, scope of practice, working experience and benefits.We describe the survey process and key findings from the most recent survey administered in early 2018.
Methods
A Survey Monkey link was sent to all nephrology APs (PAs, NPs, CNS) belonging to NKF’s Council of APs. Respondents were encouraged to share the survey link with any nephrology AP, NKF member or not.The survey was open from 1/18-4/18 with monthly reminders & a push for responses at Spring Clinical Meetings.Response rate was 64%.
Results
Survey responses included 47 states and DC, with the most results from TX, OH, NC, GA and IL (18,16,14,13,13 respectively).The 2018 survey indicated an increase in minority representation among APs & a shift towards a younger workforce.HD management has been, and continues to be, a major activity of nephrology APs with 86% involved. Among APs reporting HD management, 82% conducted MCP visits. The average number of HD patients/wk is 50-100, a decrease from previous surveys. The average number of HD units/wk is 2-3 & 1-2 hours/wk driving. Office/Clinic duties were reported by 71% of the respondents with CKD clinic & emergent appointments (hospital discharge/ESRD/AKI work-ins) common.Teaching (patients, APs, RNs, staff) was reported by 54% of respondents, while 23% of respondents saw PD patients; mainly in PD clinic. 47% of respondents see patients in the hospital, with the majority seeing consults and inpatient rounds.More APs report taking call (HD/PD, hospital and office) although the majority report no after-hours call.Average salaries increased to $106,000/yr with PAs earning more than NPs.This was the 10th year in a row of salary increases, although the rate of increase has decreased.Most common benefits include CME, malpractice, retirement and health insurance.
Conclusion
The NKF survey includes a detailed overview of the nephrology AP workforce in the United States. While the nephrology AP job description has changed slightly over time, with more time spent on call, outpatient dialysis remains an important area of AP involvement and APs continue to work in hospitals, office/clinic and are involved in education. It will be important to continue monitoring the evolution of the role of APs in nephrology, as they continue to complement the needs of the nephrologist and increase income to the practice.
Funding
- Private Foundation Support