News Release from University of Minnesota Health

New nurse-led clinic in Minneapolis poised for downtown revival

Recent legislation helps University of Minnesota Health launch its first clinic with nurses at the helm
 
MINNEAPOLIS – March 23, 2015 – In the heart of Minneapolis’ rapidly evolving Downtown East neighborhood, a new clinic led by nurses opens April 6 to treat patients and teach the next generation of care providers.

With help from recent legislation that allows the most highly educated clinical nurses to practice independently from physicians, this new primary care clinic operated by the University of Minnesota School of Nursing is modernizing health care infrastructure for the state’s fastest growing city.
 
“This is an all-hands-on-deck moment in health care. We are seeing growing numbers of nurses leading, delivering and coordinating care. They’re on the frontlines treating chronic conditions, diagnosing common problems and educating patients,” said Brooks Jackson, dean of the University of Minnesota Medical School. “Our University of Minnesota Health Nurse Practitioners Clinic is the latest example of how we’re evolving to this new care model.”

The legislation, which passed with an overwhelming majority, aims to reduce health care costs and alleviate a growing shortage of primary care providers by allowing nurse practitioners, nurse midwives, clinical nurse specialists and nurse anesthetists to practice more autonomously.

Nurse-led clinics could significantly improve people’s access to qualified care providers. In urban centers, these care providers can improve patient flow across the health care system. That’s because nurse practitioners and other highly trained nurses are able to accommodate common health needs, like diabetes, women’s care and pediatric milestones, making room for more involved consultations at area doctors’ offices.

In addition to nurse practitioners, the clinic will be a training ground for an inter-professional team including clinical pharmacists, undergraduate nursing students and other primary care providers. When a patient presents complex symptoms, the clinic’s nurses are able to refer that person to leading specialists within the University of Minnesota.

“When we look at the new stadium, the apartments and condominiums, and the employers moving into the Downtown East area, we see an opportunity to serve a vibrant, diverse and growing community,” said Connie White Delaney, dean of University of Minnesota School of Nursing. “This clinic – and the legislation that helped make it a reality – is paving the way for a healthier Minnesota.”

The clinic is located at 814 S. 3rd St., Minneapolis, MN, 55415. For appointments starting April 6, call 612-888-9792 or visit www.umnhealth.org/np.

About University of Minnesota Health

University Of Minnesota Health Represents collaboration between University of Minnesota Physicians and University of Minnesota Medical Center. Working together, we provide exceptional care in a wide range of specialties at our hospitals, clinics and in community‐based facilities throughout the region. Visit: www.UMNHealth.org

About University of Minnesota School of Nursing

The University of Minnesota School of Nursing offers three graduate programs and one undergraduate program serving a total of 950 students. Its Doctor of Nursing Practice program is the third largest in the nation, preparing nurse practitioners, nurse midwives, clinical nurse specialists, nurse anesthetists, public health nurses and other specialists. The school is a leader in nursing research and discovery.  

To make an appointment (after April 6), call 612-888-9792

Learn more at:  umnhealth.org/np

University of Minnesota Health Nurse Practitioners Clinic Facts
• First nurse-led clinic in the University of Minnesota Health system
• First clinic opened by the University of Minnesota School of Nursing
• One of five nurse-led clinics in the region
• 2,600 square feet
• Onsite lab
• Five clinic exam rooms
• Initially staffed by two nurse practitioners, a clinical pharmacist, three staff
• 300 yards from the entrance to the new Vikings Stadium
• One block north of the Downtown East station served by the blue and green lines
• Opened at the invitation of RS EDEN, a regional provider of affordable housing and other social services, which runs a 100-unit facility in Downtown East