In this episode of the Society of Critical Care Medicine (SCCM) Podcast, host Maureen A. Madden, DNP, RN, CPNC-AC, CCRN, FCCM, welcomes Christopher D. Newman, MBA, PA-C, FCCM, of Children's Hospital Colorado, and Victoria Howard, PA-C, of the University of Rochester to discuss professional advancement tracks for advanced practice providers (APPs).

APP professional advancement programs aim to improve retention and engagement. Mr. Newman and Ms. Howard highlight additional benefits as well. They explain how the pilot professional advancement tracks at their institutions address specific needs of APPs.

Mr. Newman’s program addresses the challenge of recognizing and supporting the nonclinical contributions of predominantly clinical faculty such as APPs. Ms. Howard’s program recognizes APPs’ careers beginning at an early stage and incorporates salary advancement into the program.

The guests discuss the practical challenges of implementing a professional advancement model, including finding financial resources, obtaining institutional buy-in, and making the recognition relevant and meaningful to APPs’ work.

Both guests emphasize that professional advancement programs should motivate and engage APPs over the course of their careers and encourage more appreciation for their work. The conversation will motivate listeners to explore similar career development programs at their own institutions.