A Case for Specific Education of Advanced Practice Providers in Allergy & Immunology: Results of a Gap Analysis and Targeted Needs Assessment

Abstract

Introduction Advanced practice providers (APPs) are increasingly utilized throughout the health care system. At present there is no nationally sanctioned curriculum for APPs providing Allergy & Immunology (A&I) care. Methods A nationwide gap analysis and targeted needs assessment was conducted to examine the current level of education/training of APPs in A&I. Results At present, training in A&I in NP/PA school is quite limited. The formal education and clinical training APPs receive at practice sites varies significantly with most APPs feeling only somewhat comfortable providing A&I care upon completion of their training period. Conclusions Results of a nationwide gap analysis and targeted needs assessment identify the need for providing education specific for A&I to APPs practicing in this field.