University of Utah Hartford Center of Geriatric Nursing Excellence

Primary Care Adult Nurse Practitioner

primary_careOf today's 2.7 million registered nurses, less than one percent are certified in gerontological nursing and only three percent of advanced practice registered nurses have specialized training in geriatrics. Presently, there are not enough nurse practitioners who have knowledge of the best practices to provide primary care outside of the hospital in ambulatory care clinics, outpatient clinics, assisted living centers, or long-term care facilities. A nurse practitioner with a specialty or sub-specialty in gerontology would have the knowledge and experience to treat an older patient with the best procedures and medications to minimize the risk of complications or injuries due to hospitalization. 

Students will have the opportunity to incorporate a 9-hour Noorda Geriatric Nursing Scholar subspecialty into their program of study. They may also choose to complete a specialized 15-hour University of Utah Hartford Center of Geriatric Nursing Excellence Noorda Graduate Certificate of Gerontology program while completing their degree. Scholarship opportunities are available, via an application process, to students who commit to completing a geriatric subspecialty. Additionally, a limited number of scholarships may be available for those students who wish to complete the Noorda Gerontology Graduate Certificate.

For specific information about the Primary Care Specialty Programs that lead to a Doctor of Nursing Practice Degree, which includes: Adult Nurse Practitioner (ANP), Gerontological Nurse Practitioner (GNP) and Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP), contact Paula Siciliano by e-mail, paula.siciliano@nurs.utah.edu, or phone, (801) 581-5276.

For more information about the innovative opportunities offered in collaboration with the University of Utah Hartford Center of Geriatric Nursing Excellence contact Jan Abramson by e-mail, jan.abramson@nurs.utah.edu or phone, (801) 587-8390.