Current Evidence and Emerging Trends in Nurse Practitioner Delivered Virtual Care

Abstract

Aim The purpose of this integrative review was to explore the current state of knowledge regarding nurse practitioner (NP)-delivered virtual care. Background The rapid expansion of virtual care, especially during the COVID pandemic, has improved healthcare access, continuity, and efficiency. NPs are increasingly adopting virtual care as both a standalone modality and an adjunct to traditional, in-person visits. A thorough review of current knowledge related to virtual care implementation, benefits, limitations, and outcomes of virtual care is essential to guide practice, education, regulation, and healthcare system integration. Methods A comprehensive search of PubMed, OMNI, and CINAHL was conducted using keywords related to NP-led virtual care. Eligible studies meeting inclusion criteria were critically appraised and thematically analyzed to identify major trends and gaps. Findings  Five major themes emerged: increased engagement, virtual care standardization, socioeconomic factors, patient-provider relationships, and the value of hybrid care. Subthemes reflected both benefits—such as improved access, convenience, and provider satisfaction—and challenges, including technology barriers, provider readiness, and variable patient comfort, particularly among older adults. Conclusion Evidence suggests that virtual care is an effective standalone modality for some areas of NP clinical practice. Meanwhile, hybrid care—combining virtual and in-person visits—has been identified as the most effective approach for many clinical populations. Exclusively in person care may be necessary in certain clinical scenarios based on the need for physical examination, the inability of patients to access or use virtual technologies, or for relationship building among patients unfamiliar with or not preferring digital technology. Healthcare system funding for ongoing education and training for virtual care, compliant virtual care delivery systems, new technologies, payment infrastructure and evaluation of NP led virtual care across specialties and practice settings will be essential to support its skillful use for improved patient outcomes.