Official Statement from the Florida Nurse Practitioner Network (FNPN) Regarding the U.S. Department of Education’s Classification of Nursing

The Florida Nurse Practitioner Network (FNPN) firmly disagrees with the recent decision by the U.S. Department of Education to classify nursing as “not a profession.” This ruling does not reflect the reality of modern healthcare or the essential role nurses play in safeguarding the health of our communities and ensuring access to all levels of health care.

Nursing and advanced practice nursing are grounded in rigorous education, clinical competency, and adherence to clear professional standards. Nurse practitioners diagnose, treat, prescribe, coordinate care, lead teams, and contribute to research and policy. These responsibilities are core functions of a recognized profession.

FNPN also stands with the other healthcare disciplines included in this ruling, such as social work, physician assistants, occupational therapy, physical therapy, and clinical mental health professionals. These fields require advanced education, licensure, and accountability, and they are integral to patient care and community health.

FNPN opposes this decision and urges the Department of Education to immediately re-evaluate and correct this classification. We are working with state and national partners including American Association of Nurse Practitioners (AANP), Florida Nurses Association (FNA), the American Nurses Association (ANA) and legislative leaders to address this issue and advocate for recognition that aligns with the realities of healthcare delivery.

To every nurse in Florida and to all the impacted professions, your work, training, and service to patients reflect the highest standards of professionalism. FNPN stands with you and will continue to defend the integrity and recognition of nursing and our colleagues across the healthcare continuum.

Nursing is a profession. Nurses and Nurse Practitioners are professionals. FNPN stands firmly against any ruling that suggests otherwise.

— Florida Nurse Practitioner Network (FNPN)