Despite Pandemic Challenges, New Matrix Medical Network Survey Finds Nurse Practitioners Are More Committed Than Ever to Their Profession

More than 90 percent also feel technology such as telehealth has had a positive impact on their nursing abilities

News provided by

Nov 10, 2020, 09:00 ET

SCOTTSDALE, Ariz., Nov. 10, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- Matrix Medical Network^® (Matrix), a clinical services organization that gives health plans and employers the tools and knowledge they need to manage the health of at-risk populations at home and at work, today announced the results of a survey conducted in recognition of National Nurse Practitioner Week, Nov. 8-14, 2020. The survey's purpose was to assess nurse practitioner (NP) attitudes toward various developments and challenges related to the ongoing COVID-19 global pandemic.

One of the most significant findings was that in spite of the long hours and difficult conditions that have led to physical, mental and emotional exhaustion for many nurses, 60 percent of NPs surveyed said the experience has strengthened their commitment to the nursing profession, while another 35 percent said their commitment level remained the same. Only 4 percent said it had reduced their commitment, which is good news in light of ongoing concerns about nurses leaving the healthcare industry, especially with another COVID-19 surge reportedly underway.

"I have always been committed to my nursing profession but feel health plan members need us even more than they did before the pandemic," said a nurse practitioner who offers direct patient care. "Most members have not been able to see their primary care physicians since the pandemic started. This has made our visits, whether in-person (when allowed) or via telehealth, even more crucial. In many cases we not only bring them care but also the human contact they may not be getting from other normal sources. When you see their response, it inspires you to do more."

Another key survey question inquired about the impact of technology (such as telehealth) on respondents' nursing abilities. Early in the pandemic, as many states went on full or partial lockdown, health plans were restricting NPs from making in-home visits. Organizations such as Matrix overcame that barrier by expanding their use of telehealth, including telephone or voice-and-video calls over the Internet, to continue performing health assessments and a breadth of other clinical services for health plan members. More than nine out of ten NPs reported at least somewhat of a positive impact, with 45 percent saying it was very positive. Only 3 percent found it to be negative, with none stating it was "very negative."

"A lot of our members are elderly, and some are afraid to leave the house for fear of contracting COVID-19," one nurse practitioner shared. "That makes telehealth crucial for this population because it might be the only type of health-related visit they get during this pandemic. Telehealth enabled us to adapt what we do to the unfortunate circumstances we as a nation find ourselves in so we can continue to deliver access to care, and the power of human touch without the physical touch, in their time of great need."

Yet it wasn't only the members who benefitted from the use of telehealth. The NPs surveyed were largely grateful this option was available to maintain care, and that it was implemented so quickly and supported so deeply by their organizations.

"I am not surprised to see results like these," said Laura Jonsson, chief clinical officer at Matrix Medical Network. "Our organization alone has more than 3,000 NPs, and we are in the process of hiring 1,000 more, so we have some strong insights into the level of commitment NPs bring. While it may sound like a cliché, it really is a calling, and we know NPs really care about the members they help. I also think telehealth has proven its effectiveness in bringing NPs and members closer together and improving care, even when there isn't a global pandemic in play. We at Matrix have seen how much having a telehealth option improves NP job satisfaction as well as member satisfaction, and plan to expand its use to further our mission of meeting members where they live or work."

Jonsson was recently interviewed on HIMSS TV discussing the important role technology plays in alleviating clinician burnout.

To understand how Matrix uses telehealth to conduct risk adjustments, read this article.

To learn about career opportunities at Matrix Medical Network, click here.

About the Study

Matrix Medical Network collected survey data online from Oct. 30-Nov. 3, 2020. The survey report was based on 489 responses. Survey respondents were nurse practitioners across the U.S.

About Matrix Medical Network

Matrix Medical Network is a leader in supporting the needs of at-risk populations. Matrix has worked with millions of individuals across the country to assess and help them manage their health risks through a network of more than 3,000 clinicians and a fleet of mobile health clinics. The organization's unmatched network of health care professionals meets individuals where they work and live to assess health and safety, identify and close care gaps, and offer life-changing services that activate them to manage their own health. With its deep roots in clinical assessment and care management services, Matrix was uniquely positioned to rapidly respond to the spread of COVID-19 with clinically based services to employers providing essential services to keep or return their workforces to their worksites. Today, Matrix offers customizable solutions including on-site clinics, viral testing, contact tracing, environmental assessments, clinical consultations, vaccine administration, clinical trial support, and access to an expert clinical advisory panel. Matrix services leading companies across a wide range of industries including food manufacturing, defense manufacturing, government, retail, higher education, distribution, entertainment, and others. For more information, visit www.matrixmedicalnetwork.com.

*Matrix Medical Network is the registered trademark of Community Care Health Network, LLC. Community Care Health Network, LLC is an affiliate of Matrix Clinical Solutions, LLC.

SOURCE Matrix Medical Network