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Question
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What does the future look like for Licensed Practical Nurses in the changing healthcare delivery system as costs continue to rise and with Americans possibly losing access to government programs like Medicaid/Medicare?
I've noticed over the years that hospitals and other healthcare facilities have reduced or eliminated the number of LPNs on staff, even with nursing shortages nationwide (esp. post-COVID).
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2 answers
Updated
Dr’s Answer
Hey Nathalie
As far as I know and hear, Nathalie, you ain’t wrong and honestly, it sounds like you’ve been doing your own digging too, which is awesome. So what I can say is that the future for LPNs isn’t gone, it’s just... shifting.
Like yeah, hospitals have trimmed down LPN roles, especially after COVID, but it’s not because LPNs aren’t valuable — it’s more about how the system’s being restructured. Rising costs, changing policies, and the push for cheaper outpatient and community-based care means LPNs might be stepping out of the hospital spotlight and into more essential, hands-on roles in clinics, home care, long-term care, and places where people still desperately need care but without the hospital bill horror stories.
And let’s be real here, the way healthcare’s changing, there’s always gonna be a place for someone who’s got real patient care skills and heart. You just might need to be open to roles outside the usual path. If you ever choose to expand to RN or specialize, cool — but even as an LPN, you’re still a key part of this crazy, messy, but deeply needed system.
The fact that you’re asking this question shows you're already thinking like someone who’s ready to adapt, grow, and stay ahead. That’s power right there. Keep going and keep asking its the best way to grow. Hope this helps and feel free to reach out if you need to.
As far as I know and hear, Nathalie, you ain’t wrong and honestly, it sounds like you’ve been doing your own digging too, which is awesome. So what I can say is that the future for LPNs isn’t gone, it’s just... shifting.
Like yeah, hospitals have trimmed down LPN roles, especially after COVID, but it’s not because LPNs aren’t valuable — it’s more about how the system’s being restructured. Rising costs, changing policies, and the push for cheaper outpatient and community-based care means LPNs might be stepping out of the hospital spotlight and into more essential, hands-on roles in clinics, home care, long-term care, and places where people still desperately need care but without the hospital bill horror stories.
And let’s be real here, the way healthcare’s changing, there’s always gonna be a place for someone who’s got real patient care skills and heart. You just might need to be open to roles outside the usual path. If you ever choose to expand to RN or specialize, cool — but even as an LPN, you’re still a key part of this crazy, messy, but deeply needed system.
The fact that you’re asking this question shows you're already thinking like someone who’s ready to adapt, grow, and stay ahead. That’s power right there. Keep going and keep asking its the best way to grow. Hope this helps and feel free to reach out if you need to.
Loved reading this, thanks!
arthur
Thanks for your quick response! I am already planning to further my nursing education, but I also feel like there are opportunities where LPN's can be extremely helpful, especially as RNs are experiencing burnout, for example, and leaving healthcare altogether. I'm not sure what it was like in the past that caused the shift in roles and responsibilities, but it's definitely something I want to explore further.
Nathalie
I am glad you enjoyed reading this Arthur, stay awesome buddy. You are always welcome.
Dr H
Nathalie, You are very welcome and I gotta say — you're already making me look lazy! 😅 Seriously, your level of dedication and foresight at this stage is absolutely impressive. It’s not every day you see someone ready to pivot and adapt before the so changes come! The whole LPN vs. RN burnout issue is real and you are totally right LPN's are getting that opportunity off this. The shift in roles has a lot to do with the changing healthcare model. With the focus shifting to outpatient and community-based care, the need for skilled, hands-on care in those settings has exploded. RNs burning out from the crazy hospital shifts has left a lot of room for LPNs to step in and keep things running smoothly in other crucial areas like home care and long-term care.
Dr H
As said Back in the day, LPNs were everywhere, like the go-to problem solvers in hospitals. They did everything, from patient care to all sorts of tasks. But then hospitals got a little fancy with their focus on RNs, trying to make everything more “specialized.” Kind of like how you start out with a Swiss Army knife and end up using a million different tools instead. Nathalie, You're building yourself as someone who is not just filling a role, but actually meeting a growing need in healthcare. Keep that mindset, and you’re going to be ahead of the curve! All the best dear.
Dr H
Updated
Chiquria’s Answer
This is a great question—healthcare is changing a lot, and Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) are playing a new and important role.
Current Situation:
You're right that many hospitals have fewer LPNs now, choosing to hire more Registered Nurses (RNs) instead. This is because patient care is getting more complex, and RNs have more training to handle these challenges.
Where LPNs Shine:
But don't worry—LPNs are still needed in many places, such as:
- Long-term care facilities like nursing homes and assisted living
- Rehabilitation centers
- Home health care
- Outpatient clinics
- Doctors’ offices
In some areas, especially rural or underserved ones, LPNs are crucial for providing care.
Impact of Costs and Access:
If Medicaid or Medicare access changes, there may be a shift to more affordable care models, boosting demand for LPNs in community and home settings. However, funding cuts might affect jobs in places relying on these programs.
Looking Ahead:
Job Growth: There is expected job growth for LPNs, mostly outside hospitals, until at least 2032.
Expanded Roles: LPNs could take on more duties in team-based or community care models.
Education & Flexibility: LPNs who get extra certifications or move towards becoming RNs will have more opportunities.
Adaptability: Being open to roles in outpatient, home care, hospice, or managed care will be beneficial.
Key Points:
- In hospitals: LPN roles might be fewer.
- Outside hospitals: LPNs are in demand, especially in elder care, outpatient, and home health.
- Being flexible, learning new skills, and exploring different care settings will be important for the future.
Learn more:
- BLS: LPN/LVN Job Outlook
- ANA: The Future of Nursing
Current Situation:
You're right that many hospitals have fewer LPNs now, choosing to hire more Registered Nurses (RNs) instead. This is because patient care is getting more complex, and RNs have more training to handle these challenges.
Where LPNs Shine:
But don't worry—LPNs are still needed in many places, such as:
- Long-term care facilities like nursing homes and assisted living
- Rehabilitation centers
- Home health care
- Outpatient clinics
- Doctors’ offices
In some areas, especially rural or underserved ones, LPNs are crucial for providing care.
Impact of Costs and Access:
If Medicaid or Medicare access changes, there may be a shift to more affordable care models, boosting demand for LPNs in community and home settings. However, funding cuts might affect jobs in places relying on these programs.
Looking Ahead:
Job Growth: There is expected job growth for LPNs, mostly outside hospitals, until at least 2032.
Expanded Roles: LPNs could take on more duties in team-based or community care models.
Education & Flexibility: LPNs who get extra certifications or move towards becoming RNs will have more opportunities.
Adaptability: Being open to roles in outpatient, home care, hospice, or managed care will be beneficial.
Key Points:
- In hospitals: LPN roles might be fewer.
- Outside hospitals: LPNs are in demand, especially in elder care, outpatient, and home health.
- Being flexible, learning new skills, and exploring different care settings will be important for the future.
Learn more:
- BLS: LPN/LVN Job Outlook
- ANA: The Future of Nursing