Top Challenges in APRN Licensing and How to Overcome Them
The licensing process gives advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs) the authority to provide crucial services to patients beyond the scope of RNs. An APRN license shows that a nurse has earned an advanced degree and is qualified, competent and properly trained.
Some nurses struggle to get their licenses not because they’re unprepared to work as APRNs but because the licensure process itself is so challenging. This post explores some obstacles you might face and how Medical Licensure Group (MLG) can help you conquer them.
Understanding the Complexity of State-Specific Requirements
State medical boards set APRN license requirements and evaluate license applications. Because there are no universal expectations or procedures, it’s vital that you thoroughly research the licensure process for any state where you hope to become an APRN.
In addition to location-based differences, state boards also regularly change their licensing requirements. As such, being informed about regulatory changes could mean the difference between maintaining your license or having it lapse. That’s why MLG prioritizes following industry developments and providing the best possible guidance to APRNs and other medical professionals.
Managing Extensive Documentation
The process of getting your APRN license involves the time-consuming and tedious task of gathering, organizing and submitting substantial documentation. In addition to collecting your documents, you also have to confirm that they’re accurate and up-to-date, as errors and omissions could lead the state board to delay or deny your license approval.
Leveraging services like MLG takes much of the burden of document management and verification off your shoulders. A specialist can store and examine all your diplomas, licenses, certificates and other credentials, confirm that they’re correct and current and reach out to the relevant issuing organizations if they aren’t.
Navigating Continuing Education Requirements
Prospective APRNs must earn a master’s or doctoral degree prior to obtaining their license, but their professional education doesn’t end there. To renew their license, most states require that they complete a certain number of continuing education hours. This might involve coursework, practical experiences, or exams.
One of the most difficult elements of license renewal is balancing continuing education with your work commitments. In addition to participating in professional development, you must keep track of renewal dates, collect the necessary documentation and fill out your renewal application. Planning ahead is key to navigating this process, and MLG’s tracking and reminder systems help ensure you don’t miss an important deadline.
Multi-State Licensing for Telemedicine and Travel Nursing
The United States is currently struggling with a nursing shortage, particularly in rural areas and small communities. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the country will need more than 30,000 APRNs each year to keep up with the demand for care.
For that reason, telemedicine and travel nursing are increasingly essential to providing quality services for patients. Unfortunately, navigating multi-state licensing is complex and time-intensive.
The APRN Compact is designed to help APRNs become licensed in multiple states more quickly and easily than traditional licensure paths have allowed. Only four states currently participate in the APRN compact:
- Delaware
- Utah
- North Dakota
- South Dakota
A few others have pending legislation in place, but most APRNs have to seek out additional resources for support. MLG helps streamline multi-state licensing processes so you can serve patients in a variety of locations.
Renewal and Maintenance of Licensure
To continue providing medical care to patients, APRNs have to periodically renew their licenses. Failing to maintain your licensure could endanger your career and future prospects. If you have licenses in multiple states, tracking and meeting different renewal dates can be especially difficult.
MLG offers hassle-free license renewal and maintenance services, so you don’t have to wonder whether you forgot to include an important date in your already overflowing calendar.
The Role of Professional Licensing Services
A professional licensing service like MLG can simplify and expedite APRN licensing by taking care of the most important steps in the process, including:
- Researching state requirements
- Preparing your application
- Verifying your credentials
- Contacting credential holders
MLG’s personalized support and expert guidance eliminate many of the questions that APRN applicants encounter while submitting their applications. Best of all, while MLG manages your licensure, you can continue to focus on what matters most: caring for your patients.
Make APRN Licensing Easier With MLG
Effectively navigating the challenges of APRN licensure is critical to your career growth. Missing documents, deadlines or credentials shouldn’t derail your professional success or the much-needed care you provide for patients.
When it’s time to apply for or renew your APRN license, seek professional assistance to streamline the process. Call MLG at 850.433.4600 or contact us online for one-on-one support for all your APRN licensing needs.