November 2013 - There are more than 171,000 nurse practitioners recognized to practice in America today. NPs provide a full range of services, such as ordering, performing and interpreting diagnostic tests; diagnosing and treating acute and chronic conditions; prescribing medications and treatments; and managing overall patient care.

National Nurse Practitioner Week, November 10-16, 2013, is a time to celebrate these exceptional health care providers and to remind lawmakers of the importance of removing outdated barriers to practice so that NPs will be allowed to practice to the full extent of their experience and education. Nurse practitioners are informed, in touch and involved, making them the health care providers of choice for millions and a solution to the primary care crisis in America.

Please visit the American Association of Nurse Practitioners website at www.aanp.org for further information and resources regarding National NP Week.