At which institution was the first Nurse Practitioner program established?

The first Nurse Practitioner program was established at the University of Colorado in 1965. This program was pivotal in the development of the Nurse Practitioner role, which was designed to address the growing need for healthcare providers, particularly in primary care and underserved areas. The program was founded by Dr. Loretta Ford and Dr. Henry Silver, who aimed to create a new type of nursing role that would blend clinical practice with advanced education, enabling nurses to provide comprehensive care to patients.

The establishment of the program at the University of Colorado marked a significant evolution in the nursing profession, emphasizing the importance of advanced nursing practice and the expansion of nurses' roles in healthcare delivery. This initiative laid the groundwork for subsequent Nurse Practitioner programs across the country, significantly impacting the healthcare system and patient access to care.