Is 2017 getting away from you? It seems that way for me. Looking at the calendar the other day, my initial inclination that I had some time for fall planning was quickly proven incorrect. Yes, it is time to start thinking about schedules for October and November. Before you know it, we’ll be heading into the holiday season when the days really start to whiz past. So, if you’ve still got your nurse practitioner continuing education stipend burning a hole in your pocket, it’s time to make a decision about which conference you’ll attend this year.
While I often enjoy highlighting more extravagant continuing medical opportunities on the blog (think wilderness medicine or international getaways), most of us have a hard time budgeting for such trips or taking the time away for extravagant destinations. So, this go-around, I’m keeping it simple with a handful of practical, stateside options for nurse practitioners to increase their clinical know-how. If you’re in the market for a CE opportunity this fall, check out the following wish list.
1. Geriatrics for Primary Care, Cape Cod, MA
I’ve always wanted to take an East Coast seaside getaway and this September 8-10 conference seems like just the right excuse. Not only will nurse practitioner attendees master approaches to treating the geriatric patient, they will also discuss disease-specific processes common among this patient population like overactive bladder, heart failure, and hypertension management. When you aren’t busy furthering your education, check out Cape Cod’s historical homes or take a relaxing walk along the water.
2. Internal Medicine and Primary Care Update, Washington, DC
If you’re more of a big city vacationer, get acquainted with our nation’s political history along with enhancing your medical education at this October 26-29 conference. This conference is packed with information, giving attendees the opportunity to earn up to 30 continuing education credits in just 4 days. After spending the day brushing up on your chronic disease management skills, visit the city’s famed monuments, the White House, or paddle the Potomac River. In fact, there’s so much to see in DC, you just might want to extend your trip!
3. Type 2 Diabetes, Metabolic Syndrome and Obesity, Alaska Cruise
While still technically in the states, this CE pick is on the more extravagant end of the spectrum. Hop onboard Holland America’s ms Noordam and set sail for a number of Alaska’s most renowned sightseeing destinations. From glaciers to fjords, white capped peaks and wildlife viewing, this continuing education adventure caters to those who appreciate natural beauty. Between stops, you’ll also earn credits while you cruise, diving deeper into some of the core issues addressed by nurse practitioners in primary care – management of patients with diabetes, metabolic syndrome, and obesity.
4. Internal Medicine Update, New Orleans, LA
Visit the culturally rich city of New Orleans taking in music, city sights and, of course, the decadent food scene all with a purpose. Nurse practitioners attending this conference will cover a wealth of healthcare topics from dermatology to drug interactions during morning hours. Attendees will enjoy afternoons free to tour the city or simply relax. If you’re looking for a blend of well rounded CME content paired with the makings of a great vacation, this October 13-15 conference just might be the one for you.
5. Emergency and Urgent Care Medicine for the Primary Care Provider, San Diego, CA
Are surf, sand and sun more your thing? Fair weather lovers and beach goers will love this attractive October 27-29 conference option. Enjoy San Diego’s perfect climate and picturesque beaches all in the name of education. Conference attendees will review acute disorders seen in the primary care setting and discuss the role of primary care providers in managing such conditions. If you’re an NP with an urgent care bent, this conference topic is just for you.
Thinking ahead to 2018? Don’t miss ThriveAP’s March 8-9 continuing education conference for nurse practitioners, Emergencies in Primary Care. Learn more about this Nashville, TN event here.
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