Here are 4 key reasons why Oregon is considered a challenging state for NP students to find clinical preceptors:
- High concentration of programs – Oregon has over 15 NP education programs for a relatively small population, resulting in heavy competition for limited preceptor spots.
- State practice restrictions – Oregon has strict oversight and limitations on NP scope of practice and student clinical hours compared to other states. This disincentivizes preceptors.
- Liability concerns – Oregon does not extend liability protection to preceptors supervising NP students, causing hesitancy among potential preceptors.
- Lack of incentives – Oregon does not currently offer financial incentives or other perks to serve as a clinical preceptor, reducing motivation to take on students.
- Rural preceptor shortages – Outside Portland, Oregon is largely rural, making specialty preceptor placements in these areas difficult to find.
The dense concentration of NP programs, practice limitations, liability worries, lack of incentives, and rural preceptor scarcity altogether make finding preceptors an ongoing struggle for Oregon’s NP students. Creativity and determination are essential to securing clinical training placements.
If you are struggling finding a FNP preceptor in Oregon, we have a number in the Portland area. Please fill out our form on the main site (www.preceptortree.com or email Mary (mary AT gmail.com).
