In the early years of Nurse Practitioner(NP) education, at least in the state of Texas. Nurses were trained in advanced roles specifically for rural areas. This is the reason I received my education as an NP in the 1970's.
As evidence that NP's gave execellant care, practice areas increased to include laarge cities. Once again, rural areas lost much needed health care.
Congratulations to New Mexico for once again understanding the need for Nurse Practitioners in high need areas.
Rose Ann Smith, RN, MSN, NP-C
Amarillo, Texas