A Systematic Review of Outcomes Related to Nurse Practitioner-Delivered Primary Care for Multiple Chronic Conditions

Multiple chronic conditions (MCCs) are more common and costly than any individual health condition in the United States. The growing workforce of nurse practitioners (NPs) plays an active role in providing primary care to this patient population. This study identifies the effect of NP primary care models, compared with models without NP involvement, on cost, quality, and service utilization by patients with MCCs. We conducted a literature search of six databases and performed critical appraisal. Fifteen studies met inclusion criteria (years: 2003-2021). Overall, most studies showed reduced or similar costs, equivalent or better quality, and similar or lower rates of emergency department use and hospitalization associated with NP primary care models for patients with MCCs, compared with models without NP involvement. No studies found them associated with worse outcomes. Thus, NP primary care models, compared with models without NP involvement, have similar or positive impacts on MCC patient outcomes.

Automated summary

Multiple chronic conditions (MCCs) are common and costly in the United States. Nurse practitioners (NPs) have a positive impact on the primary care of patients with MCCs, showing reduced costs, equivalent or better quality, and similar or lower rates of emergency department use and hospitalization. NP primary care models have similar or positive impacts on MCC patient outcomes compared with models without NP involvement.