Mid-Level Providers: What Do We Do?

Changes in resident physician work hours have made it increasingly more difficult for physicians to meet the needs of their patients. In many facilities, mid-level providers (MLPs; advanced practice nurses and physician assistants) have become integral members of the medical team in both inpatient and outpatient settings. The purpose of this study was to identify the roles of MLPs in the American Burn Association (ABA) and within burn care teams. There was a 49% return survey response rate. Respondents included 28 (58%) nurse practitioners and 16 (33%) physician assistants. Forty-six percentage of the MLPs had at least 11 years of burn care experience. Forty respondents (87%) worked both inpatient and outpatient settings. Thirty-four (74%) of the providers ran independent clinics. Job responsibilities were in areas of direct patient care, education, and administrative duties. The majority of respondents were members of the ABA, attended annual conferences, and were advanced burn life support instructors. Forty-two (91%) of the MLPs were satisfied with their jobs. In conclusion, MLPs are highly experienced, ABA members and assume direct care of the burn patient.