25 | From Student to Provider: Supporting APPs Through the Transition to Practice

The transition from student to advanced practice provider (APP) can be exciting, but also overwhelming. In this episode, host Stephanie speaks with two trailblazers who are shaping the future of nurse practitioner and physician associate onboarding: Dr. Dodi Iannaco of Virtua Health and Cedar Wang of Holy Name Medical Center.

Together, they explore:

• The New Jersey APP Transition to Practice Program
• What effective onboarding looks like for new NPs and PAs
• The evolving roles of APPs in diverse healthcare settings
• How structured support can boost confidence, competence, and retention
• The impact of clinical and non-clinical education (via ThriveAP and Vizient)
• Why strong peer cohorts and mentorship matter

Whether you're a nurse leader, educator, or new APP, this episode offers practical insights into building a better beginning for the next generation of healthcare providers.

Key Takeaways:

• Onboarding programs significantly improve retention and job satisfaction among APPs.
• Role clarity and speciality-specific training are crucial for APP success.
• Structured programs like ThriveAP and Vizient provide a framework for clinical excellence and peer support.
• APPs are expected to grow by 66% (NPs) and 37% (PAs) in the next decade – highlighting the urgent need for scalable support programs.
• A collaborative, well-defined transition process benefits both the provider and the patients they serve.

Relevant Links:

• Learn more about the New Jersey Collaborating Center for Nursing. https://www.njccn.org
• More on ThriveAP. https://www.thriveap.com
• Explore Vizient. https://www.vizientinc.com

Chapters

• 21:52 Marker 5
• 28:55 Marker 6
• 30:53 Marker 7