Today, the Registered Nurses’ Union Newfoundland & Labrador (RNU) proudly hosted Minister of Health and Community Services, John Hogan, for the signing of the official proclamation of National Nurse Practitioners’ Week, running from November 10-16, 2024. This proclamation recognizes the vital contributions Nurse Practitioners (NPs) make to the public healthcare system and celebrates the difference they make in the lives of patients and communities across Newfoundland and Labrador.
During the visit, RNU President Yvette Coffey highlighted the exceptional expertise and compassionate care NPs provide throughout the province. She emphasized the value of Nurse Practitioners in ensuring high-quality, patient-centered care and their role in strengthening access to primary healthcare.
“Nurse Practitioners are real difference-makers,” Coffey stated. “Their advanced education, clinical expertise, and holistic approach make them essential in delivering solutions for better health outcomes.”
Coffey also discussed concrete solutions to improve access to public healthcare with the Minister, including the need to allow NPs to practice to their full scope and the benefits of establishing NP-led clinics within the public healthcare system. Such changes, she explained, would help alleviate pressures and improve patient access, especially in underserved rural and remote communities.
Another critical topic of discussion was the joint Professional Development Questionnaire (PDQ) for Nurse Practitioners, which is key to recognizing the unique expertise, education, and experience of NPs. Coffey advocated for a more appropriate acknowledgment of NPs’ qualifications through experience credits for Registered Nurses who become Nurse Practitioners, ensuring they are placed at the correct step in their compensation.
“It is vital that government recognizes the experience and value Nurse Practitioners bring to our healthcare system, both in terms of patient care and as integral members of our healthcare teams,” Coffey added.
The RNU, as the official and recognized bargaining agent for Nurse Practitioners in the province of Newfoundland and Labrador, is committed to advocating on behalf of NPs to improve working conditions, ensure fair recognition, and drive forward solutions that enhance public healthcare delivery.
Minister Hogan’s visit and the proclamation signing underscore the government’s recognition of the vital role NPs play in our public healthcare system. The RNU remains steadfast in advocating for Nurse Practitioners and ensuring their contributions are valued and appropriately compensated.
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About the Registered Nurses’ Union Newfoundland & Labrador
The Registered Nurses’ Union Newfoundland & Labrador represents more than 5,800 registered nurses and nurse practitioners who work across acute care, long-term care, community, education, and research sectors, advocating for quality patient care and the professional interests of registered nurses and nurse practitioners.
Media Contact:
Jonathan Hamel
Director of Communications, Registered Nurses’ Union Newfoundland & Labrador
Phone: (709) 691-6890
Email: jhamel@rnunl.ca