The purpose of this research was to determine if patient satisfaction differed when clinical services were provided by nurse practitioners versus physicians in the occupational health setting. This convenience sample included 129 patients visiting community-based occupational medicine clinics for evaluation of a new work-related injury. There was high satisfaction with both nurse practitioner and physician providers. There was no significant difference in overall patient satisfaction between provider types. Results of this study support a practice model using nurse practitioners as primary providers in the occupational health setting.
The purpose of this research was to determine if patient satisfaction differed when clinical services were provided by nurse practitioners versus physicians in the occupational health setting. This convenience sample included 129 patients visiting community-based occupational medicine clinics for evaluation of a new work-related injury. There was high satisfaction with both nurse practitioner and physician providers. There was no significant difference in overall patient satisfaction between provider types. Results of this study support a practice model using nurse practitioners as primary providers in the occupational health setting. Editor's Note-The AAOHN Journal usually refrains from using the term "patient" in its articles except when referring to those who are cared for by health care providers (workers), the clients of occupational health nurses. An exception has been made for this article as the authors do not believe that "client, worker, or employee" adequately reflect the purpose of their research and are concerned that the article might not be included in the "patient satisfaction" literature."-J. W O ccupational health is devoted to the prevention and management of occupational and environmental injuries, illnesses, and disabilities and the promotion of the health, productivity, and safety of
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