 If you’re an NP student planning your clinical rotations in Florida, you know how challenging it can be to secure a placement. And honestly, it’s true. There’s a lot of competition for NP preceptors and clinical sites across the state, especially in metro hubs and select rural pockets. If you don’t attend a school that places you for clinicals, or if they provide limited help, it may be on you to find a preceptor. I’ve talked with thousands of NP students over the years, and I know the process can feel stressful and confusing. Some don’t know where to start, while others have sent dozens of emails and phone calls without a single response…or they just get a clear “NO.” It can feel discouraging, but with the right strategy, you can find the right NP preceptor in Florida who can help you get across the finish line to graduate and practice! Let’s walk through what you need to know to make your NP clinical placement successful and less stressful. The smartest strategy combines early planning, geographic flexibility, and tight alignment with your school’s requirements. Florida data back this up: the state has high NP employment, widespread primary-care and mental-health shortage areas (HPSAs). Why Florida Feels More Competitive
If you’ve ever wondered why the search process is so difficult in the first place, take a look at this article Why Is It So Hard to Find a Preceptor? The NP Preceptor Struggle. It breaks down the root causes and offers insight that can help you approach your own search with more perspective and patience. Where It’s Hardest and Where It’s More DoableThe good news is that Florida has a massive NP and APRN workforce. In 2023–2024, there were more than 54,000 actively licensed advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs) statewide, based on a report from the Florida Senate Health Policy Committee. Roughly 86% of Florida’s 46,000 APRNs in 2022 were nurse practitioners. Hardest due to competition (many students, lots of programs): Miami–Fort Lauderdale–West Palm Beach; Tampa–St. Petersburg–Clearwater; Orlando–Kissimmee–Sanford; Jacksonville. These metros show high APRN/provider clustering and heavy student traffic. Hardest due to low site density (fewer clinics, deeper shortages): Interior South-Central (Glades, Hendry, Okeechobee) and parts of the western Panhandle (Liberty, Calhoun, Holmes, Washington, Gulf, Franklin). Use HRSA’s HPSA tools to confirm. More doable (target just outside the big metros. Don’t get me wrong, it’s still hard!):
Specialties: What’s Typically “Doable” vs. Consistently TightMore doable (statewide trend)
Consistently the tightest:
Florida-Specific “Quick Playbook” (What Works)
Important: Can NP Students Precept With PAs in Florida?
How PreceptorLink® helps Florida NP studentsWe maintain a vetted network across Florida (primary care, geriatrics, WH, psych, and more), coordinate with schools on affiliation agreements, and help you use outer-ring geographies and telehealth strategically, so the plan fits your program and timeline.
If you’ve tried searching on your own without success, partnering with a professional service like PreceptorLink/AMOpportunites can make the process easier. Our team maintains a verified database of NP preceptors across Florida, including those open to students from various universities. We work directly with both preceptors and schools to match you with clinical sites that meet your program’s criteria and timeline. This saves weeks of outreach and uncertainty and helps you move forward with confidence. About The Author Lynn McComas is the Chief Nursing Officer at AMOpportunities and Founder of PreceptorLink. She is a recognized expert in precepting nurse practitioners and advanced practice provider students and has been matching preceptors since 2014. With over two decades in primary care, Lynn has served as a coach, advisor, mentor, and preceptor for countless healthcare professionals, including NPs, nurses, and medical assistants. She co-founded a successful skills and procedures business and speaks nationwide on NP-related issues. Lynn is also a regular contributor on LinkedIn, KevinMD, Facebook, YouTube, Instagram @preceptorlink, X @LynnMcComas, and her blog, where she addresses the growing NP and PA professions and the urgent need for preceptor sites. Her unique perspective, shaped by her business, clinical, and educational experiences, positions her as a key voice in tackling preceptor shortages. Lynn is committed to driving change—through a paradigm shift in NP education, reducing barriers, offering preceptor incentives, and advocating for reforms within the profession.
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 If you talk to any nurse practitioner preceptor these days, chances are you’ll hear a mix of pride and exhaustion. Many preceptors truly love teaching, but they also carry heavy clinical and administrative loads. Between seeing patients, documenting, supervising students, and managing obligations outside work, something often gives. That something can be their energy, creativity, and motivation to mentor. Preceptor burnout is real. It hurts not only the individuals but the entire NP education system. When experienced mentors feel depleted, it impacts students, schools, and the profession as a whole. Let’s look closer at what causes burnout, how it shows up, and how we can all help prevent it. What Burnout Looks Like for NP PreceptorsBurnout doesn’t happen overnight. It builds slowly, often beneath the surface. A preceptor may start cutting back on teaching hours, canceling student days, or limiting new placements. They may become quieter in the clinic, skip debriefing sessions, or show visible signs of fatigue. It’s not that they no longer care; they’re simply running on empty. A recent U.S. study of nurse preceptors found that about 28 percent of respondents reported experiencing burnout. Interestingly, nearly all participants, 96.7 percent, still said they enjoyed precepting, showing how passion for teaching often coexists with exhaustion. (Based on what I see in the NP forums, I would bet that burnout number is even higher.) Another national survey of health professional preceptors across the United States reported that 58.2 percent felt precepting contributes to their burnout, while 41.8 percent self-identified as experiencing burnout directly. Respondents represented 49 states, underscoring that this is a nationwide concern rather than an isolated problem. These numbers show that NP preceptors are not alone in their struggle. When burnout is ignored, it doesn’t just affect one person. It disrupts the consistency and enthusiasm that students rely on, turning what should be an inspiring learning environment into one that feels rushed, tense, or emotionally drained. Why NP Preceptor Burnout Is RisingThere isn’t a single cause. It’s a mix of professional, emotional, and systemic pressures. Most preceptors are already stretched thin before taking on a student.
Time and workload consistently rank among the top reasons providers decline to take students. As noted in the article 9 Reasons Providers Don’t Want to Precept, many clinicians are already managing full patient panels, extensive documentation, and administrative responsibilities. When these pressures build up without adequate support, exhaustion follows, and burnout becomes the natural result of those same demands. How Burnout Impacts NP EducationWhen preceptors reach burnout, it has a ripple effect. Students often describe the experience as walking on eggshells, unsure when to ask questions or worried they’re a burden. Feedback becomes minimal, teaching moments disappear, and the joy of learning fades. On a larger scale, burnout deepens the ongoing preceptor shortage. When mentors stop taking students, schools scramble to fill placements, and NP students face graduation delays. It’s a cycle that keeps repeating unless the underlying issue of preceptor fatigue is addressed. In a growing field like nurse practitioner education, where thousands of new students enroll each year, this is not a small problem. Without healthy, supported preceptors, clinical education simply cannot function. What Schools and Programs Can DoNP programs have significant influence over how preceptors experience teaching. Simple, thoughtful actions can make a major difference in reducing fatigue and building long-term partnerships.
When schools treat preceptors as partners instead of resources, burnout becomes much less common. What Students Can Do to HelpStudents might not realize how much they influence their preceptor’s experience. A thoughtful, dependable student can make a preceptor’s day smoother and more enjoyable, while an unprepared one can unintentionally add to their stress.
These small efforts show professionalism and empathy, two qualities that not only make your rotation better but also remind your preceptor why teaching matters. Many of these same principles apply to students as well. For a deeper look at student preparation, check out Common Mistakes NP Students Make During Clinical Rotations. How Matching Services Can Make a DifferenceFinding, screening, and supporting preceptors is a huge task, and many burn out because they’re doing it alone. Professional matching services like PreceptorLink/AMOpportunities help reduce that pressure by managing much of the behind-the-scenes coordination. We can help, whether you are an individual student or a school! PreceptorLink’s process includes verifying credentials, ensuring alignment with program requirements, and maintaining communication between all parties. That structure creates smoother placements and helps prevent burnout caused by administrative overload. When preceptors feel supported and valued, they’re more likely to stay engaged and keep mentoring. It’s not just about filling clinical spots. It’s about protecting the longevity of those willing to teach. Final ThoughtsPreceptor burnout is more than exhaustion. It’s a warning sign that the system needs to change. When those who teach future nurse practitioners begin to pull back, the ripple effect reaches students, schools, and ultimately, patient care.
Burnout doesn’t have to be inevitable. With recognition, collaboration, and shared responsibility, it can be reduced in real, lasting ways. When schools listen, students take initiative, and services like PreceptorLink help with the logistics, preceptors can return to what they do best: teaching and shaping the next generation of healthcare providers. To every NP preceptor balancing patient care and mentorship, thank you. Your role is the bridge between classroom learning and real-world practice. Your commitment keeps the profession moving forward. And when you feel supported, the entire NP community thrives. At PreceptorLink, we’re committed to helping you stay inspired, appreciated, and connected. Whether you’re a student searching for a clinical site or a preceptor looking for support, we’re here to make the process easier, more respectful, and sustainable for everyone involved. About The Author Lynn McComas is the Chief Nursing Officer at AMOpportunities and Founder of PreceptorLink. She is a recognized expert in precepting nurse practitioners and advanced practice provider students and has been matching preceptors since 2014. With over two decades in primary care, Lynn has served as a coach, advisor, mentor, and preceptor for countless healthcare professionals, including NPs, nurses, and medical assistants. She co-founded a successful skills and procedures business and speaks nationwide on NP-related issues. Lynn is also a regular contributor on LinkedIn, KevinMD, Facebook, YouTube, Instagram @preceptorlink, X @LynnMcComas, and her blog, where she addresses the growing NP and PA professions and the urgent need for preceptor sites. Her unique perspective, shaped by her business, clinical, and educational experiences, positions her as a key voice in tackling preceptor shortages. Lynn is committed to driving change—through a paradigm shift in NP education, reducing barriers, offering preceptor incentives, and advocating for reforms within the profession.  If you’re in the middle of your NP program, there’s one question that has probably been circling in your mind: When should I start looking for a preceptor? I get asked this all the time. And here’s my honest answer: start 9 to 12 months before your rotation begins. I’ve worked with thousands of students, and I’ve seen both sides of this coin. The ones who start early are more likely to find strong placements and walk into clinicals on time. The ones who wait? More often than not, they end up scrambling, stressed, and sometimes even facing delayed graduation. I don’t want that to happen to you. In this article, I’ll explain why starting early matters, common mistakes students make, what role school deadlines play, and practical tips to make your search smoother. Why Timing Is EverythingFinding a preceptor is not easy.. It’s a multi-step process with a lot of moving parts. You need to identify a willing provider, make sure they meet your school’s requirements, and then get all the paperwork completed and the preceptor and site approved. Even if you have someone willing, it doesn’t mean your school will approve them! Sigh…Sorry, this is so hard! Here’s the truth: every single one of those steps takes longer than students expect. If you have ever wondered why it’s hard to find a preceptor, the reasons are many, and they can affect how soon you need to begin your search.
Mistakes I See Students MakeLet me be real with you. After years of working with NP students, I have seen the same mistakes pop up again and again. If you can avoid these, you will save yourself a lot of stress and maybe even a delay in your graduation.
Are There Cons to Booking Early?There actually are cons to booking early, but most are outweighed by the pros. Things can change when you plan a year in advance. Jobs change; people get pregnant…you get it. Most importantly, when you plan in advance, keep in touch periodically (don’t stalk them!! Trust me, we hear this!). I spoke to one student who found her own placement a year in advance, who said she dropped off a box of homemade cookies with a note saying, “I’m looking forward to doing my clinical rotation with you Jan. 4- March 31… for 150 hours. Let me know if there is anything I can do to best prepare for it.” She listed her name, email, and cell. She had done something similar when her paperwork needed signing. She was good to go for that rotation. Be polite, professional, and flexible- this includes talking to the staff. They are part of your clinical rotation, too. The Role of School Deadlines in Your Preceptor Search One thing students often overlook is their school’s own deadlines. Most programs want all preceptor information submitted well in advance, sometimes as much as 90 to 120 days before the rotation begins. If your clinical is scheduled for January, that could mean your paperwork is due in October or even earlier. This is where timing really makes a difference. If you wait until November to begin your search, you are already behind. I do not want that for you. The smartest approach is to mark your school’s deadline on a calendar as soon as you know it, then work backward. Give yourself a cushion of at least two extra months to lock in your preceptor before anything is due. That extra time is what saves students when contracts get stuck on someone’s desk or a provider takes longer than expected to reply. A little buffer now can save you from a lot of stress later. Tips to Make Your Preceptor Search EasierThere are a few strategies that can take some of the stress out of finding a preceptor. These are simple, practical steps that I have seen help many students along the way:
Final ThoughtsI know this process can feel intimidating. The important thing to remember is that you are not on your own. When you give yourself plenty of time, stay organized, and keep both your school’s requirements and your preceptor’s needs in mind, you put yourself in the best position to succeed.
Your clinical rotations are one of the most important parts of your NP journey. They are where you will grow the most, build confidence, and start shaping the kind of provider you will become. So give yourself the best chance by starting now, not later. And remember, if you get stuck, our team at PreceptorLink® is always here to help. We’ve matched thousands of students with preceptors, and we’d be happy to support you, too. Your future career is too important to leave to chance. Start early, follow the timeline, and walk into your first day of clinical ready and confident. You’ve got this! About The Author Lynn McComas is the Chief Nursing Officer at AMOpportunities and Founder of PreceptorLink. She is a recognized expert in precepting nurse practitioners and advanced practice provider students and has been matching preceptors since 2014. With over two decades in primary care, Lynn has served as a coach, advisor, mentor, and preceptor for countless healthcare professionals, including NPs, nurses, and medical assistants. She co-founded a successful skills and procedures business and speaks nationwide on NP-related issues. Lynn is also a regular contributor on LinkedIn, KevinMD, Facebook, YouTube, Instagram @preceptorlink, X @LynnMcComas, and her blog, where she addresses the growing NP and PA professions and the urgent need for preceptor sites. Her unique perspective, shaped by her business, clinical, and educational experiences, positions her as a key voice in tackling preceptor shortages. Lynn is committed to driving change—through a paradigm shift in NP education, reducing barriers, offering preceptor incentives, and advocating for reforms within the profession.  If you are a nurse practitioner student in Texas, whether FNP, PMHNP, AGACNP, or another track, clinical rotations are one of the most important and stressful parts of your program. Texas has dozens of NP programs and thousands of students competing for placements. High demand, evolving site expectations, and state-specific requirements make the process challenging. This guide covers what rotations are, how they work in Texas, where the challenges lie, and how to set yourself up for success.
Clinical rotations are not just a graduation requirement. They are where you sharpen your clinical judgment, learn how to manage patient care, and build professional confidence. Strong performance can lead to job offers or professional connections. They also prepare you for licensure by documenting required clinical hours. Treat every rotation as if it were a job interview because they often open doors to your first NP position. For specific tips on excelling during rotations, see what NP students should do and not do for clinical rotations. Here is how rotations usually work in Texas. Your program sets required hours and specialties. You secure a preceptor, sometimes with school assistance. An affiliation agreement must be signed between your school and the clinical site. You complete supervised hours, receive evaluations, and submit documentation for approval. A few schools such as TWU, UT Health San Antonio, and Cizik School of Nursing help with placements, but most students are responsible for finding their own preceptors. Rotations in Texas are challenging because of high competition for limited preceptors, provider burnout reduces the willingness to teach, affiliation agreements often take months to finalize, and geographic barriers add complexity in rural regions. Demand far exceeds supply, especially in major cities like Dallas and Austin. Texas is projected to need more than 13,000 additional nurse practitioners by 2036, yet over 60 percent of counties are designated shortage areas. But what I hear in the real world is that it is very hard for new grads to find jobs in certain cities. This will translate when it comes to a preceptor search. If it’s hard for a new grad to find a job, it will likely be hard for a student to find a placement. You may need to be more flexible if you are in an impacted area. Where you rotate matters. In large cities such as Houston, Dallas, Austin, and San Antonio, you may access specialists, high acuity cases, large health systems, and networking opportunities. The tradeoff is limited preceptor availability, long onboarding, and challenges with Affiliation Agreements. If your school doesn’t already have one in place with a large healthcare institution, the site is unlikely to add another school. Then you find you’re shut out of multiple options in the area. In rural regions, students often gain more responsibility, closer mentorship, and broader patient exposure. Many students report that rural placements become the best part of their program. Border and underserved regions such as South Texas or the Rio Grande Valley provide unique opportunities to serve communities in need, build cultural competence, and gain experience with interdisciplinary teams. These sites often welcome students and can offer stipends, housing, or future job opportunities. And, you’ll get to buff up on your Spanish, a skill that can make you more marketable. HRSA sites can be a great option. You can use this HRSA tool to find Health Professional Shortage Areas (HPSAs) across Texas. Preceptors in Texas must be an NP, MD, DO, PA, or other approved provider, practicing in the same specialty, in good standing with their board, and working in a clinical site that meets school requirements. There is no statewide list, so eligibility must be confirmed with your school. To secure a preceptor in Texas, start early, ideally 4 to 6 months in advance, and even earlier in cities. Ask your school for preceptor lists and information on approved sites. Use a professional matching service such as PreceptorLink® if you are short on time or struggling to find options. Tap into your network by asking classmates, coworkers, and local NPs, and use professional groups on Facebook or LinkedIn. When contacting a preceptor, be professional, include who you are, what you need, your school, your dates, and attach a polished cover letter and CV. See also Preparing for Clinicals: 13 Essential Questions To Ask Before You Start to help you get ready for each rotation. Affiliation agreements are often the biggest source of delay. These legal contracts can take 30 to 90 days or more to finalize. Always ask your school which sites are already affiliated, especially if you need inpatient or ER or are trying to secure a preceptor at a large facility. Your school knows where they have affiliations in place! It always frustrates me when students say their school won’t tell them. Really, this is the least they can do! If your chosen site is new, begin paperwork immediately and stay in close contact with your school coordinator. You may need to follow up directly to move things forward. At PreceptorLink® we help facilitate this process and reduce bottlenecks. The Texas Board of Nursing requires that all clinical placements follow strict standards. Sites must provide appropriate learning experiences, written agreements must be in place, preceptors must be credentialed, and faculty must retain oversight even if preceptors supervise. Students may only accept clinical tasks they are prepared for and must seek supervision when faced with new or unfamiliar situations. Clinical records and evaluations must be properly documented and retained by the school. In summary, NP clinical rotations in Texas are competitive, time-consuming, and often overwhelming, but they are also an opportunity to grow and launch your career. Plan early, keep an open mind about rural or underserved areas, and use every available resource, including your school, your network, and professional placement services. Treat rotations as job interviews, show up prepared, and build lasting professional relationships. If you need help finding a preceptor in Texas, PreceptorLink® connects NP students with vetted placements across specialties and supports you through paperwork, communication, and coordination with your school. Visit the PreceptorLink app to start your search today!  Finding a preceptor is one of the biggest challenges nurse practitioner (NP) students face today. If you’ve ever spent hours cold-calling clinics, emailing providers, and still come up empty, believe me, you’re not alone. One question I hear all the time is: “Why don’t schools help with preceptor placement?” The short answer is: sometimes they do. Some schools go above and beyond, building strong preceptor networks and actively securing sites. Others may promise help, but the reality is that students still do most of the legwork. A few programs, however, provide little to no assistance at all. This inconsistency leaves many students frustrated and unsure of what to expect. In this article, I’ll share what I’ve learned about how schools approach preceptor placement, where the gaps often are, and why this matters so much for NP students. What Accreditation Standards Actually SayMany students assume schools are going to find them preceptors. The truth is, accrediting bodies like the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) do require schools to provide students with high-quality clinical experiences. CCNE’s 2024 Standards, effective January 1, 2025, require programs to ensure quality clinical experiences and clear policies around clinical requirements and placements, but they do not mandate that schools personally arrange every preceptor for every student. Some schools go above and beyond, helping secure sites, coordinating paperwork, and even offering school-linked clinics (most have med schools attached). Others place the responsibility almost entirely on students to track down their own preceptors. Do your research and ask for clarity in writing to find out the truth. Look on nursing and social forums to find out the truth as well. Just because they claim to help doesn’t necessarily mean they actually do. Schools That Do Offer Support A few universities stand out for actively assisting students. Some well-resourced or highly selective programs do usually place their students, or at least help. Students should expect to pay higher tuition or clinical fees, but many feel it’s well worth it. These schools generally have real faculty involvement and support as well. That said, even for the schools that “help,” students sometimes report that support is limited or inconsistent. It’s not unusual for programs to say they’ll assist, only for students to still end up making most of the calls themselves. Watch for an upcoming article on this subject as well! How Schools Can Help with Preceptor PlacementWhen schools take preceptor placement seriously, it shows. Quality programs don’t leave students to fend for themselves. They build systems that make the process smoother for everyone involved. Whether that means bringing outside help (like PreceptorLink®/AMO) or having their own team, they support students. Here are some of the most effective ways schools can support preceptorships: 1. Building Preceptor Networks Schools that invest in long-term relationships with hospitals, clinics, and community practices give their students a huge advantage. By keeping a list of trusted preceptors who have worked with the program before, schools can quickly connect students with providers who already understand the expectations. 2. Providing Administrative Support Anyone who’s gone through preceptor placement knows that paperwork can be a mountain. Site agreements, credentialing, background checks can be overwhelming. Schools that step in to handle these details remove a major burden from both students and preceptors. 3. Involving Faculty in the Process Good faculty support goes beyond the classroom. Some programs send faculty advisors to clinical sites to check in on students and preceptors. Others provide structured evaluation tools that make it easier for preceptors to give consistent feedback. These touchpoints help ensure quality and show preceptors they aren’t alone in guiding students. 4. Offering Incentives for Preceptors Let’s face it. Precepting takes time and effort. Schools that recognize this with small stipends, continuing education credits, or even formal recognition programs tend to keep their preceptors engaged. A little appreciation goes a long way. 5. Preparing and Supporting Preceptors Not every great clinician has been trained to teach. Schools that offer orientation sessions, workshops, or access to academic resources (like online libraries) help preceptors feel more confident in their role. This, in turn, creates a better learning environment for students. 6. Leveraging Technology Some schools are getting creative by using placement software to match students with available sites, reducing the back-and-forth. Others are even exploring telehealth preceptorships in rural areas, expanding opportunities for students while addressing access issues. When schools put these pieces in place, it doesn’t just make life easier for students. It also strengthens relationships with preceptors and improves program outcomes. Everyone benefits: students, faculty, preceptors, and ultimately, patients. The Challenges Schools FaceOf course, I want to be fair here. Schools don’t always withhold support out of neglect. In many cases, they’re navigating challenges that make preceptor placement more complicated than it looks from the outside.
The Challenges Students FaceFrom a student’s point of view, the struggle to secure a preceptor can feel overwhelming. You’re balancing coursework, deadlines, and family responsibilities. On top of that, you’re expected to find someone willing to precept you. Here are some of the most common challenges I hear from students:
How PreceptorLink® Helps Schools with Preceptor Placement Schools really should be helping their students secure clinical placements, but the reality is, not every program has the time, connections, or infrastructure to do it well. And when that happens, it’s the students who end up struggling. That’s why we created our Schools Program. At PreceptorLink®, we partner directly with nursing schools to strengthen their clinical placement process. Instead of leaving students to scramble on their own, we help schools:
When schools and PreceptorLink®/AMOpportunities work together, everyone wins: students, preceptors, faculty, and ultimately, the patients they will go on to serve. And since PreceptorLink® and AMOpportunities have joined ranks, we have even more preceptor options and better services and support! Final ThoughtsIf you’re a student, my advice is: don’t assume your school will handle everything for you. Ask early and clearly what support they provide. If you find yourself struggling, know that you’re not alone and that there are resources out there to help.
If you’re a faculty member or administrator, we know how hard this job is! We’ve been doing NP clinical placements for over a decade! If you need our help, we’re here to support you. Your students are counting on you, and there are proven ways to make this process smoother. Schools: Strengthen your clinical placement process with PreceptorLink®/AMO. Contact [email protected]. Together, we can make clinical education easier, more consistent, and more supportive for everyone involved. About The Author Lynn McComas is the Chief Nursing Officer at AMOpportunities and Founder of PreceptorLink. She is a recognized expert in precepting nurse practitioners and advanced practice provider students and has been matching preceptors since 2014. With over two decades in primary care, Lynn has served as a coach, advisor, mentor, and preceptor for countless healthcare professionals, including NPs, nurses, and medical assistants. She co-founded a successful skills and procedures business and speaks nationwide on NP-related issues. Lynn is also a regular contributor on LinkedIn, KevinMD, Facebook, YouTube, Instagram @preceptorlink, X @LynnMcComas, and her blog, where she addresses the growing NP and PA professions and the urgent need for preceptor sites. Her unique perspective, shaped by her business, clinical, and educational experiences, positions her as a key voice in tackling preceptor shortages. Lynn is committed to driving change—through a paradigm shift in NP education, reducing barriers, offering preceptor incentives, and advocating for reforms within the profession.  Lynn McComas, DNP, ANP-C — Chief Nursing Officer at AMOpportunities and founder of PreceptorLink® -- has once again been featured on KevinMD with her timely article, “Protecting What Matters Most: Guarding Our NP Licenses With Integrity.”
In this powerful piece, Lynn reminds nurse practitioners that our licenses are more than credentials — they are symbols of trust, responsibility, and commitment. She reflects on the sobering downfall of a once-respected colleague, highlighting how individual missteps can ripple across the entire NP profession and damage public trust. Drawing from her decades of leadership, mentoring, and precepting experience, Lynn calls on NPs to safeguard their licenses by upholding the highest standards of ethics, diligence, and transparency. She emphasizes that once a license is lost, no title, publication, or reputation can restore it — making integrity the foundation of our profession. This article is both a warning and a call to action for NPs everywhere: protect your license, protect your integrity, and protect the future of our profession. 👉 Read the full article on KevinMD here.  Finding a nurse practitioner (NP) preceptor in California can feel like a full-time job. Between tight timelines, limited availability, and varying school requirements, many NP students get stuck. If that is you, you are not alone. The good news is that there are smart, practical steps you can take to make the process easier and faster. In this guide, I'll walk you through how to find NP preceptors in California, share local resources to support your search, and help you understand what makes the Golden State unique when it comes to clinical placements. Why Is It So Hard to Find NP Preceptors in California?California is one of the most competitive states for NP students. Dozens of programs graduate thousands of students every year, and demand for clinical placements is higher than the number of available preceptors. Here are the biggest challenges students face in California:
Step 1: Understand California’s Clinical Rotation RequirementsBefore reaching out to anyone, make sure you know what is required in California.
Step 2: Special Rules for Out-of-State NP ProgramsThis is one of the biggest differences between California and other states. If you are enrolled in an NP program that is based outside of California, your school must obtain prior BRN approval before you can complete a clinical placement in California. The BRN requires:
Step 3: Focus Your Search by RegionCalifornia is huge, and the approach you take depends on where you are. High-demand areas with more opportunities but also more competition include Los Angeles, San Diego, Orange County, the Bay Area, and Sacramento. Underserved or less saturated regions include the Central Valley, the Inland Empire, and many Northern California counties such as Humboldt or Shasta. These areas can be great options if you are open to travel. Some rural sites even offer stipends or housing to help. Step 4: Use California-Specific NetworksNetworking is one of the best ways to secure a placement here.
Step 5: Be Aware of School Rules in CaliforniaNot every school in California allows paid preceptors or outside matching services. Public schools like the CSU and UC systems often discourage it, while private universities such as University of San Diego or Samuel Merritt may be more open. Online programs such as Walden, Chamberlain, and Purdue Global typically require students to find their own preceptors, which makes California even more difficult since many local sites prefer in-state students. Step 6: Consider a Preceptor Matching ServiceIf you are short on time or struggling on your own, a preceptor matching service can be a lifesaver.
Final ThoughtsFinding an NP preceptor in California is not easy, but it can be done with the right strategy. Start early, know your requirements, and use every resource available to you. The state has strict rules, competitive metro areas, and heavy paperwork, but if you stay persistent and professional, you can secure a great placement.
PreceptorLink® can help simplify the process and take the stress off your plate so you can focus on what really matters: your education and your patients. About The Author Lynn McComas is the Chief Nursing Officer at AMOpportunities and Founder of PreceptorLink. She is a recognized expert in precepting nurse practitioners and advanced practice provider students and has been matching preceptors since 2014. With over two decades in primary care, Lynn has served as a coach, advisor, mentor, and preceptor for countless healthcare professionals, including NPs, nurses, and medical assistants. She co-founded a successful skills and procedures business and speaks nationwide on NP-related issues. Lynn is also a regular contributor on LinkedIn, KevinMD, Facebook, YouTube, Instagram @preceptorlink, X @LynnMcComas, and her blog, where she addresses the growing NP and PA professions and the urgent need for preceptor sites. Her unique perspective, shaped by her business, clinical, and educational experiences, positions her as a key voice in tackling preceptor shortages. Lynn is committed to driving change—through a paradigm shift in NP education, reducing barriers, offering preceptor incentives, and advocating for reforms within the profession.  I follow many NP forums, and one of the things I see mentioned that I felt needed some exploration is whether and how to start a telepsychiatry practice. So let’s look at this! Telepsych looks like the new gold rush, but our calling goes far beyond chasing a paycheck. We are healers, educators, advocates, and now, business owners. As an entrepreneur and business owner myself, I want to help others think long and hard before making the dive into starting their own telepsych practice. Let’s talk candidly about what’s coming down the pike and how to do it right, not just fast. Below is a Q&A that reflects current federal rules as of July 23, 2025, along with my other experiences and research. 1. Are telehealth laws about to change? Should I wait?Many of the pandemic-era flexibilities are set to expire on Sept 30, 2025, unless Congress acts. Medicare patients can still receive non-behavioral/mental health telehealth visits at home, without geographic restrictions, through that date. For mental health, the six-month in-person requirement is waived until Jan 1, 2026, for FQHCs and RHCs. The DEA has extended the ability to prescribe controlled substances via telemedicine through Dec. 31, 2025, and is developing special registrations that would allow certain practitioners (e.g., psychiatrists and hospice physicians) to prescribe Schedule II–V medications without ever seeing the patient in person. DEA will also require telemedicine platforms to register and plans to build a national prescription-drug monitoring program. My take: Be thoughtful here. You can open a compliant telepsych practice now, knowing the rules could evolve. Or wait until you are sure where things will be a few months down the road. Stay plugged into updates from HHS and the DEA so you can adjust when final rules are published. 2. What equipment and hardware do I really need?Quality care starts with quality technology. The New York Office of Mental Health says telepsychiatry must use videoconferencing equipment that allows synchronous video and voice exchange; they outline three setups: dedicated telepresence systems, PC-based solutions (computer + webcam, speakers, and mic), or tablets with remote-control cameras. The American Telemedicine Association likewise recommends professional-grade cameras and audio and stresses having a backup plan for equipment failures. In practical terms:
3. What software and platforms should I use?Legally, any platform you use must comply with HIPAA. HHS warns that providers must use vendors that will sign a business associate agreement and provide secure, encrypted video. That means consumer apps such as FaceTime or Zoom’s free version won’t cut it unless there is a signed HIPAA addendum. In practice, think about two categories of software:
4. What about billing and business models?Telepsych billing can feel like navigating a minefield. Here’s a quick primer:
5. What policy shifts should I be aware of?During the public health emergency, many restrictions were lifted. Those flexibilities are slowly sunsetting. Key items:
6. How do I treat patients with substance use disorders via telepsych?In January 2025, the DEA issued a rule (not yet fully implemented) allowing DEA-registered practitioners to prescribe buprenorphine via audio-video or audio-only telemedicine for up to six months, provided certain conditions are met. Patients would need an in-person evaluation for refills beyond six months. The rule’s effective date has been delayed, but the existing pandemic-era flexibilities remain in force until the end of 2025. Practical tips:
Final thoughts Starting a telepsych practice takes more than a Wi-Fi connection and a Zoom account. You need to align your mission (improving access and care) with compliance (licensure, business registration, and DEA rules), technology (HIPAA-compliant software and quality hardware), and business acumen (billing, insurance, and pricing).
But you might not want to wait for the dust to settle. If you do start now, build a lean practice, and stay flexible as rules evolve. Patients deserve conscientious providers who are prepared for both today’s regulations and tomorrow’s changes.  I often find I can't turn off my clinical side. Recently, I had to take my three-year-old dog to the vet for decreased appetite. I watched the vet circle his hands around her abdomen to palpate her internal organs. I watched him pause... “Did he just hesitate as he palpated her? Did he feel something abnormal?" I remember thinking this to myself. Questioning his hesitation. But moments later, he completed his exam and said she was normal. I didn’t question him, and he said she looked great. He was a seasoned vet. He should know what he’s doing, right?
Turns out, I should have questioned him. He did feel something. Things were not normal, and her spleen was actually four times its normal size! He just questioned his physical exam and thought it wasn't possible in such a healthy-looking three-year-old dog. Darn! I should have listened to my gut and questioned whether he felt something. I didn’t listen to my intuition or observation skills. Trust Your Clinical Instincts As healthcare professionals, our clinical intuition, along with our assessment skills, can be a powerful tool. Our training, experience, and pattern recognition can help us to sense when something isn't right, even before lab results or imaging confirm it. There’s more to it, though. The Science Behind Clinical Intuition Research supports the role of intuition in clinical decision-making. Studies suggest that experienced clinicians often make faster, more accurate assessments based on subconscious pattern recognition. This doesn’t mean we abandon evidence-based practice. It means we acknowledge that intuition is a refined skill developed through exposure and experience. When Instincts Are Overridden How many times have you felt something was "off" but hesitated to speak up? Here are common reasons clinicians ignore their intuition:
Real-World Clinical Intuition in Action One case stands out to me: A patient had been coming into the practice for years with a diagnosis of TMJ. I was new to him, and he was asking for the same old treatment—pain meds. I dug a little deeper into his history, and one phrase he used caused me to pause. "It's a shocky feeling in my ear." I remember stopping, looking at him with a puzzled expression, and thinking, "Shocky does not sound like TMJ." I asked if he'd ever had HSV, and he had. A little further digging, and, on a hunch, I asked if he'd be willing to trial some Acyclovir. He was. Sure enough, it worked. His ear pain was not TMJ but recurrent herpes. He was forever grateful to me for listening to my gut. Another time, I saw a patient who had been repeatedly diagnosed with anxiety and prescribed medications accordingly. Something about their vague complaints, an uneasiness in their chest, a sense of "impending doom," made me reconsider. I ran a D-dimer, and sure enough, they had a pulmonary embolism. That gut feeling saved a life. Developing and Honing Clinical Intuition If intuition is a skill, it can be strengthened. Here’s how:
Takeaways for NPs, NP Students, and Clinicians
Clinical intuition is not a replacement for science; it’s a complement to it. As healthcare professionals, we owe it to our patients to balance data with instinct, ensuring the best possible outcomes. While Kira’s journey has come to a close, the lesson she left me with lives on: Trust your training. Trust your eyes. And above all, trust your gut. It just might be speaking the truth before anyone else can see it. Have you ever had a gut feeling that turned out to be right? Share your experience! About the Author Lynn McComas is the CEO and founder of PreceptorLink and a recognized expert in precepting nurse practitioners and advanced practice provider students. With over two decades in primary care, Lynn has served as a coach, advisor, mentor, and preceptor for countless healthcare professionals, including NPs, nurses, and medical assistants. She co-founded a successful skills and procedures business and speaks nationwide on NP-related issues. Lynn is also a regular contributor on LinkedIn, KevinMD, Facebook, YouTube, Instagram @preceptorlink, X @LynnMcComas, and her blog, where she addresses the growing NP and PA professions and the urgent need for preceptor sites. Her unique perspective, shaped by her business, clinical, and educational experiences, positions her as a key voice in tackling preceptor shortages. Lynn is committed to driving change—through a paradigm shift in NP education, reducing barriers, offering preceptor incentives, and advocating for reforms within the profession. Should Preceptors Be Paid? (Or get something for their time?!) Here’s Why We Think They Should7/9/2025  Preceptors are a mandatory and vital part of NP education. We honestly don’t understand why some in the profession still feel that precepting should be an expected and unrewarded “part of their role.” Imagine if school faculty were expected to work for free or receive a certificate of appreciation! In our opinion, there is value in precepting, and preceptors should receive something for their time and expertise. What exactly that might be is up to the preceptor and/or the school. For some, it might mean tickets to basketball games or access to library resources, but it also might include an honorarium. We do feel that schools should bear this cost. If they have to build it into student fees, then so be it. The cost would still be passed on to the student, but it would be the school’s responsibility, not the student’s. We love working with quality schools, by the way! No, I did not have to pay a preceptor way back when I got my Master’s NP degree. My school offered to find them nearby, or I could find my own if I wanted someone closer since I drove a couple of hours to school. I got my Masters back in the day when brick and mortar was the norm. I drove two+ hours twice a week to attend class. The expectation back then was that you drove to campus. When I got my doctorate at Duke University, I flew across the country from San Diego to North Carolina. The faculty at Duke acted as my DNP project advisors, but I definitely wanted my own preceptor site closer to home, so I found one on my own. But a lot has changed since then. It’s more complicated to precept today, which makes placement even harder. With nearly 500 NP schools across the nation, the competition is incredible to find a placement. Additionally, it’s more complicated for clinical sites due to malpractice, billing, affiliations, and the bureaucratic nature of the process. I dive into that more in my article on the shortage of nurse practitioner preceptors. Why Precepting Isn’t as Simple as It SeemsThere’s much more involved in precepting than simply supervising a student. Today’s preceptors take on added responsibilities that can directly affect their time, income, and even legal protection. Many clinicians are on RVU-based reimbursement models, where income depends on the number of patients seen. Taking time to teach can reduce productivity and lead to lost income. In addition, concerns about malpractice liability often arise, especially when there is no clear agreement outlining coverage for students. (I’d recommend ALWAYS have your own malpractice, and include a tail.) The administrative burden is also heavier than most expect. Affiliation agreements between schools and clinical sites can be time-consuming and difficult to navigate. Some agreements take months to finalize, adding stress to an already full workload. This can be hard on both the preceptor AND their site. Time, too, is a major factor. Between patient care, charting, and other responsibilities, most providers already work at capacity. Adding teaching into the mix can feel overwhelming, even for those who value mentoring. These challenges are real. And they are exactly why we believe preceptors should be compensated or recognized meaningfully for the essential role they play. Final ThoughtsPreceptors are essential to the future of nursing. Without them, NP students can’t complete their education—and yet, too often, they’re expected to work for free. That expectation simply isn’t sustainable.
We believe preceptors deserve to be compensated or meaningfully recognized for their time, energy, and expertise. Whether it's financial or material compensation, professional perks, or institutional support, their contribution should never be taken for granted. At PreceptorLink®, we’ve helped thousands of NP students find quality clinical placements. While we wish this process were easier (and less costly), we’re here to help you navigate it with confidence and support. 👉 Find or Become a Preceptor About Lynn Lynn McComas is the CEO and founder of PreceptorLink and a recognized expert in precepting nurse practitioners and advanced practice provider students. With over two decades in primary care, Lynn has served as a coach, advisor, mentor, and preceptor for countless healthcare professionals, including NPs, nurses, and medical assistants. She co-founded a successful skills and procedures business and speaks nationwide on NP-related issues. Lynn is also a regular contributor on LinkedIn, KevinMD, Facebook, YouTube, Instagram @preceptorlink, X @LynnMcComas, and her blog, where she addresses the growing NP and PA professions and the urgent need for preceptor sites. Her unique perspective, shaped by her business, clinical, and educational experiences, positions her as a key voice in tackling preceptor shortages. Lynn is committed to driving change—through a paradigm shift in NP education, reducing barriers, offering preceptor incentives, and advocating for reforms within the profession.  Deciding whether to pursue a Doctor of Nursing Practice isn’t just about adding another credential. It’s about looking at your future and asking, “What kind of impact do I want to make?” I remember sitting with that same question when I was an experienced nurse practitioner, unsure whether the DNP would truly change the way I practiced or open doors I couldn’t already access. Now, having completed my DNP at Duke University, I can tell you it reshaped how I think about healthcare, leadership, and my role in this profession. If you're exploring the possibility of a DNP, I want to share what I’ve learned, what to expect, and how to decide if this path makes sense for your goals. Let’s walk through what a DNP really involves and whether it aligns with where you see yourself going. What You Need to Know About the DNPA DNP is a practice-focused doctoral degree that prepares nurse practitioners (NPs), clinical nurse specialists (CNSs), nurse anesthetists (CRNAs), and nurse midwives (CNMs) to take on leadership roles in clinical care, healthcare policy, and education. Unlike a PhD, which focuses heavily on research, the DNP is all about applying evidence-based practice, improving healthcare systems, and driving quality improvement in real-world settings. There are two common ways to enter a DNP program:
Should APRNs with an MSN Get a DNP?If you’re already a nurse practitioner, clinical nurse specialist, CRNA, or nurse midwife with your MSN, you might be wondering whether a DNP would truly make a difference in your career. I had the same questions when I was at that stage, and here’s what I considered and what you might want to think about too. 1. Do You Need a DNP to Stay Competitive? Many APRNs still practice with an MSN, and that’s completely valid. But things are shifting. Some hospitals and academic settings are starting to prefer or require a DNP, especially for roles in leadership, education, or policy. For example:
2. Will a DNP Increase Your Salary? This varies. In clinical settings, a DNP doesn’t always lead to higher pay. But in leadership, administrative, or policy roles, the DNP is often expected and those roles tend to come with higher salaries. A colleague of mine transitioned from full-time clinical work into a director-level role in population health after completing her DNP. She wouldn’t have qualified for that position without the degree, and it came with both increased pay and a chance to lead large-scale initiatives. 3. Are You Drawn to Systems and Leadership Work? This was the deciding factor for me. I wanted to improve more than just individual outcomes. I wanted to tackle the systems behind them. DNP programs focus on quality improvement, population health, leadership, and finance. If those topics speak to you, this path can give you the skills to make a much wider impact. You might design a telehealth program for underserved communities or work within your hospital system to reduce readmissions. These are the kinds of projects that DNP-prepared nurses are trained to lead. For BSN-Prepared RNs: Is a Direct-Entry DNP the Right Move?More RNs are considering skipping the MSN and going straight into a DNP program. It sounds efficient, but it’s not always the best fit for everyone. Can You Handle the Academic and Clinical Demands? Direct-entry DNP students take on advanced practice coursework, clinical training, and doctoral-level projects all at once. It’s a heavy lift and a long road. I’ve seen nurses get through these programs, but I’ve also seen burnout. It takes strong time management, support, and a lot of grit. One former student I mentored told me that going directly from a BSN to DNP felt like “learning two languages at once.” She made it through, but she also admitted that having a year or two of NP experience first would have helped her feel more grounded during clinical rotations. Do You Have Enough Bedside Experience? Nurses who’ve spent time in direct patient care often adapt more easily to the clinical decision-making required of NPs. If you’re early in your career, you might feel like you’re playing catch-up, especially with complex diagnostic work. Some nurses prefer to earn their MSN, build some practice experience, and then return for their DNP when they’re ready for leadership. You can also check AACN’s guidance on DNP programs to better understand expectations for each pathway. DNP Pros and Cons Based on ExperienceAdvantages
Heavy academic and clinical workload, especially for direct-entry students How I Made My DecisionWhen I chose to pursue my DNP, I had already spent years in practice as an NP. I knew I wanted to go beyond individual patient care and influence the broader system. I also had an interest in mentoring and teaching future nurse practitioners. The DNP gave me the skills, credentials, and confidence to step into those roles. If you're on the fence, ask yourself:
There’s no wrong answer. Only what’s right for you. Final ThoughtsThe DNP isn’t for everyone, and that’s okay. You don’t need a doctorate to be an outstanding nurse practitioner. But if your vision includes teaching, leading, or transforming healthcare on a larger scale, the DNP can be a powerful step forward.
It was the right choice for me, and I’m proud to use what I learned every day to support students, patients, and the future of our profession. About Lynn Lynn McComas is the CEO and founder of PreceptorLink and a recognized expert in precepting nurse practitioners and advanced practice provider students. With over two decades in primary care, Lynn has served as a coach, advisor, mentor, and preceptor for countless healthcare professionals, including NPs, nurses, and medical assistants. She co-founded a successful skills and procedures business and speaks nationwide on NP-related issues. Lynn is also a regular contributor on LinkedIn, KevinMD, Facebook, YouTube, Instagram @preceptorlink, X @LynnMcComas, and her blog, where she addresses the growing NP and PA professions and the urgent need for preceptor sites. Her unique perspective, shaped by her business, clinical, and educational experiences, positions her as a key voice in tackling preceptor shortages. Lynn is committed to driving change—through a paradigm shift in NP education, reducing barriers, offering preceptor incentives, and advocating for reforms within the profession.  PreceptorLink® owner and founder, Lynn McComas, DNP, ANP-C, shares her latest perspective in the newly published KevinMD article, “What If Medicine Had an Exit Interview?” In this powerful piece, Lynn explores the quiet and often overlooked reality of clinicians leaving the profession—and the silence that follows.
Drawing from her experience in healthcare leadership and provider support, Lynn challenges the system’s tendency to move on without reflection when a clinician resigns. She poses a critical question: what could we learn if we simply asked why they left? From missed birthdays and moral injury to chronic understaffing and the erosion of identity, Lynn sheds light on the emotional and systemic weight many providers carry before making the decision to walk away. Her article encourages healthcare leaders to look beyond “burnout” and examine what’s truly driving clinicians out of the field. As someone deeply invested in provider well-being and the future of healthcare, Lynn believes we must stop viewing these exits as isolated events and start treating them as data points for real change. 👉 Read the full article on KevinMD here. Let’s stop scrambling to replace the clinicians walking out the door and start listening to them first.  By Lynn McComas, DNP, ANP-C I review a lot of resumes and LinkedIn profiles, and I notice a significant variation in the way my colleagues list their titles. Sometimes it’s right, but many times it’s wrong! Let’s face it—our profession makes it very confusing, and some people list everything they can think of listing! The NP Alphabet Soup of credentials! Yes, it’s confusing, so let’s review it! Properly listing your credentials as a Nurse Practitioner (NP) or Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN) isn’t just a formality—it reflects your hard work, your qualifications, and your professionalism. Whether you’re signing a prescription, updating your resume, or creating a business card, there is a correct and recommended format. And yes, it matters. Getting this right can make a difference in how employers, patients, and peers perceive you. The Recommended Order of NP CredentialsBoth ANCC and AANPCB recommend listing credentials in this order:
What Not to Include After Your NameLet’s stop the over-stuffing! Here are some things to leave off:
Why Is This So Confusing?Because, unfortunately, there’s no national standard for how NPs should list credentials across all contexts. That’s because:
So what are we juggling?
Real-World Credentialing ExamplesI’m all about “real-world education,” so let’s walk through what it should look like depending on where you live and what certification you hold: Example 1: Lynn McComas – California, ANP-C
Example 2: FNP in Florida – MSN-prepared, certified by AANPCB
Example 3: FNP in Texas – DNP-prepared, certified by ANCC
Example 4: PMHNP in Washington – MSN-prepared, certified by ANCC
Example 5: AGACNP in Florida – DNP-prepared, certified by ANCC
Example 6: Pediatric NP – MSN-prepared, certified by PNCB
 How Should You List Your Credentials on a Resume?On your resume, you’ll want to do both:
In Practice: What You Should Use and Where
A Few Quick Tips
Bottom Line There’s no “one-size-fits-all” way to list NP credentials—but there is a right way based on your state, your certification, and your context.
Keep it:
And please, please, please, ditch the extra fluff. You worked hard for your title. Accurate credentialing isn’t about showing off. It’s about clarity, professionalism, and patient safety. Represent your title the way it was meant to be. About Lynn Lynn McComas is the CEO and founder of PreceptorLink and a recognized expert in precepting nurse practitioners and advanced practice provider students. With over two decades in primary care, Lynn has served as a coach, advisor, mentor, and preceptor for countless healthcare professionals, including NPs, nurses, and medical assistants. She co-founded a successful skills and procedures business and speaks nationwide on NP-related issues. Lynn is also a regular contributor on LinkedIn, KevinMD, Facebook, YouTube, Instagram @preceptorlink, X @LynnMcComas, and her blog, where she addresses the growing NP and PA professions and the urgent need for preceptor sites. Her unique perspective, shaped by her business, clinical, and educational experiences, positions her as a key voice in tackling preceptor shortages. Lynn is committed to driving change—through a paradigm shift in NP education, reducing barriers, offering preceptor incentives, and advocating for reforms within the profession.  As the founder of PreceptorLink® and a practicing Adult Nurse Practitioner, I usually focus on helping students succeed, not on responding to blog posts. But after seeing our name repeatedly used in comparison articles from other companies, I felt it was time to speak directly to the students and preceptors who trust us.
Several blogs from companies like NPHub and PreceptorTree include PreceptorLink® in so-called reviews or comparisons. These are not objective resources. They are promotional content using our name to show up in search results and redirect students away from us. I want to walk you through the facts. No marketing tricks. Just real answers. Claim 1: “PreceptorLink is more expensive than other services. ”The truth: This is misleading and untrue. Here are the facts: We do not set the honorarium. Preceptors set their own rates. What we charge is based on the rate a preceptor decides is fair for their time, experience, and specialty. Then we add in our business expenses. So they do vary from preceptor to preceptor, but only because different preceptors charge different amounts. If a preceptor sets his/her rate too high for their area/specialty, we will let them know the “typical ranges.” Some change it, and some don’t. We never suggest a higher amount. We want rates to be as low as possible for students! But we also want the best rotation possible for the student, and sometimes that means a more expensive preceptor. Some services, like NPHub and Preceptor Tree, claim to have a low base price, but that’s true for every company. Then the prices increase depending on the specialty, location, or urgency. And despite their claim, Preceptor Tree is not transparent with their pricing. They do not publicly disclose their current pricing for clinical rotations. Be sure to read the fine print and ask whether their advertised rate includes all fees. With PreceptorLink®, you see the full amount up front. Claim 2: “PreceptorLink takes longer to place students. ”The truth: This couldn’t be farther from the truth. In fact, we are the fastest at placing, as demonstrated by our surveys. We are generally the fastest company in terms of placements, and we also assist with paperwork. At the same time, we want the right overall fit. Our team looks at every request that comes through and does our best to confirm preceptor availability, ensure it’s an appropriate fit, and communicate directly with students and preceptors. That extra care helps prevent issues like school denials, rotation cancellations, or last-minute confusion. While some companies may send a list of names, we focus on securing confirmed and accurate placements. Claim 3: “PreceptorLink isn’t as experienced as other services. ”The truth: We are the OG! PreceptorLink® has been supporting NP students for over a decade– since 2014! I’m an NP myself, and our entire process has been built on my knowledge and connections in the profession. Our team, including our Clinical Coordinators, is experienced in preceptor matching and is based in the U.S. hen you speak with us, you're speaking with someone who understands your school’s clinical requirements, not an offshore coordinator or call center. Some competitors rely on automated support, WhatsApp, or teams with no clinical background. That might work for selling products. It’s not good enough for your education. Let’s Talk About NPLinks and Preceptor Point We’ve had many students contact us who thought they had been working with PreceptorLink®, but they somehow connected to NPLinks, Preceptor Point, or NPHub due to name confusion or intentional links that mimic or say our name. Be careful what you click or reach out to! We’re not affiliated with any of them. If you’re unsure who you’re working with, please double-check. We’re always happy to confirm if you’ve submitted something to our site. What’s Really Going On with These Comparison Blogs? You may have seen blog titles like “PreceptorLink vs NPHub” or “Which Preceptor Matching Service Is Best?” written by the other companies themselves. Here’s what they’re doing: They use our name in blog titles, so they show up when you search for us. That’s a marketing tactic. It’s not meant to help you. It’s meant to get your attention and steer you away from us. And when you read those posts closely, you’ll notice the pattern:
How to Tell If You’re Reading Biased Info Here are a few signs the article you’re reading isn’t really a fair comparison:
Here’s What You Can Expect with PreceptorLink® We’re proud of how we do things — and we’re not afraid to be transparent.
We place hundreds of students each year and partner with schools across the country. And we don’t need gimmicks to prove our value, just facts. Still Deciding Which NP Preceptor Match Service Is Right for You? Choosing the right service is a big decision. Take your time. Do your research. But don’t make your decision based on blog posts written by competitors. If you’re comparing PreceptorLink® with NPHub, PreceptorTree, or NPLinks, I encourage you to reach out to all of us directly. Ask questions. Compare answers. See who truly listens. We’re confident in what we offer, and we’re always here to talk. Warmly, Lynn McComas, DNP, ANP-C Founder & CEO, PreceptorLink® About Lynn Lynn McComas is the CEO and founder of PreceptorLink and a recognized expert in precepting nurse practitioners and advanced practice provider students. With over two decades in primary care, Lynn has served as a coach, advisor, mentor, and preceptor for countless healthcare professionals, including NPs, nurses, and medical assistants. She co-founded a successful skills and procedures business and speaks nationwide on NP-related issues. Lynn is also a regular contributor on LinkedIn, KevinMD, Facebook, YouTube, Instagram @preceptorlink, X @LynnMcComas, and her blog, where she addresses the growing NP and PA professions and the urgent need for preceptor sites. Her unique perspective, shaped by her business, clinical, and educational experiences, positions her as a key voice in tackling preceptor shortages. Lynn is committed to driving change—through a paradigm shift in NP education, reducing barriers, offering preceptor incentives, and advocating for reforms within the profession.  I am writing this because I have heard stories and complaints from so many preceptors nationwide about things students do or don’t do. Now this is not all of you, of course! But take a look at the What To Do and What Not To Do List to make sure you are not doing any of these things! Please know that I LOVE OUR PROFESSION, and I want to help it in any way I can. Part of this involves helping to educate others about our roles and expectations. Preceptors, please do not give up on students!!! Let’s just work together because someday they will be taking care of us! What to Do Before Your Clinical Rotation
What Not to Do Before Your Clinical Rotation
Professionalism During Clinical Rotations
Pro Tips for Standing Out in a Positive Way
Final ThoughtsYour clinical rotation is more than just a school requirement. It’s a foundational experience that will shape who you are as a provider. Bring gratitude, professionalism, and humility to every encounter. Respect your preceptor, appreciate the team around you, and make the most of every learning opportunity.
About the Author Lynn McComas is the CEO and founder of PreceptorLink and a recognized expert in precepting nurse practitioners and advanced practice provider students. With over two decades in primary care, Lynn has served as a coach, advisor, mentor, and preceptor for countless healthcare professionals, including NPs, nurses, and medical assistants. She co-founded a successful skills and procedures business and speaks nationwide on NP-related issues. Lynn is also a regular contributor on LinkedIn, KevinMD, Facebook, YouTube, Instagram @preceptorlink, X @LynnMcComas, and her blog, where she addresses the growing NP and PA professions and the urgent need for preceptor sites. Her unique perspective, shaped by her business, clinical, and educational experiences, positions her as a key voice in tackling preceptor shortages. Lynn is committed to driving change—through a paradigm shift in NP education, reducing barriers, offering preceptor incentives, and advocating for reforms within the profession. Is There a Shortage of Nurse Practitioner Preceptors? A Candid Look at the Growing Concern5/17/2025  If you’re a nurse practitioner (NP) student trying to find a clinical placement, you’ve likely discovered just how difficult it can be. One of the most common questions I hear from students is: “Why is it so hard to find a preceptor?” The honest answer? There is a shortage of nurse practitioner preceptors, and it’s affecting thousands of students across the country. As someone who works closely with both students and preceptors every day, I want to break this down clearly. Let’s look at why this shortage is happening, how it’s impacting our profession, and what we can realistically do to address it. What’s Behind the Shortage of Nurse Practitioner Preceptors?The shortage of nurse practitioner preceptors has been building for years. It’s not due to one issue, but rather several overlapping challenges. 1. Growth of NP Programs According to the American Association of Nurse Practitioners (AANP), there are now over 400 accredited NP programs in the U.S., producing more than 36,000 NP graduates annually. While this growth is a positive sign for the profession, it also puts pressure on the clinical placement system. The number of students looking for rotations far exceeds the number of available preceptors, especially in high-demand specialties such as family practice and internal medicine. Many have suggested that schools need to limit the number of students they accept. That would help. 2. Lack of Incentives for Preceptors Many NPs precept out of a sense of professional duty. But mentoring a student is a significant responsibility. Unlike physicians, who may receive compensation or tax incentives, many nurse practitioners precept without any financial or institutional support. This lack of recognition contributes directly to the shortage. When workloads are already heavy, many NPs understandably hesitate to take on more without proper support. 3. Burnout in the NP Workforce According to a 2022 Medscape survey, nearly 46 percent of nurse practitioners reported experiencing burnout. High patient volumes, emotional stress, and limited resources make it difficult for many to consider adding precepting to their workload. Even seasoned preceptors often take a step back when they’re at capacity. While the NP role is often celebrated in national rankings, many nurse practitioners face very real, everyday challenges that can impact their ability to precept. We explored this further in our blog on the contrast between recognition and reality: The Nurse Practitioner Role: Celebrated Ranking vs. Real-World Concerns. 4. Competition at Clinical Sites NP students frequently compete with medical and physician assistant students for clinical placement slots. Many hospitals and clinics have formal partnerships with medical schools, and those relationships often take priority. When sites can only accept a limited number of students, NP placements are frequently the first to be cut. How the Preceptor Shortage Affects NP StudentsThe shortage of nurse practitioner preceptors doesn’t just slow down graduation—it impacts students' finances, confidence, and career goals. I’ve spoken to students who’ve reached out to more than 75 clinics without finding a placement. Many have had to delay their program for months. We also see students dropping out altogether or changing programs. This really bothers me. Selecting your program is not like just changing your shirt. It should be something you’re passionate about. Others are forced to pay out-of-pocket to secure rotations through third-party services like PreceptorLink®. In more difficult cases, students accept placements that don’t match their area of interest just to stay on track. And every time a student is delayed, the healthcare system loses a qualified provider who could be serving in a clinic, rural area, or hospital where care is urgently needed. This is more than just a scheduling issue—it’s a bottleneck that directly affects patient care. What’s Being Done and What Still Needs to HappenAwareness of this issue is growing, but real solutions require collaboration between academic institutions, practitioners, policymakers, and placement services. Offer Real Incentives Preceptors should be compensated for their time and mentorship. Whether it’s stipends, continuing education units (CEUs), or tax benefits, incentives encourage more NPs to step into teaching roles. Some schools have started to offer modest stipends, but it’s still not the standard. Simplify the Process Preceptors often cite paperwork as a major barrier. Schools can help by streamlining and simplifying their onboarding processes, limiting unnecessary forms, and offering clear expectations upfront. Making it easier to say yes makes participation more likely. Support Preceptors with Training Not all NPs feel fully prepared to mentor students. Offering short training videos, checklists, or even mentorship from experienced preceptors can make a big difference in confidence and effectiveness. Even something as simple as a clear syllabus and learning objectives can help set the stage for a productive experience. Push for Legislative Change Some states are introducing tax incentives or funding programs to support clinical preceptors. Continued advocacy from nursing organizations and educational leaders is critical if we want long-term change across the board. How PreceptorLink Is Helping Address the Preceptor ShortageI created PreceptorLink because I saw this gap firsthand. Students were doing what they could but couldn’t move forward in their programs. Preceptors often wanted to help but felt overwhelmed or unsupported. There was no easy way to bring both sides together. That’s exactly what PreceptorLink does. We help students and preceptors connect, and we walk both parties through the process with clear communication and built-in support. We also vet every preceptor to ensure students are placed in high-quality, relevant clinical settings. And preceptors can “pre-vet” students by listing their requirements for students. Beyond our core service, we’re also committed to advocating for industry-wide solutions. Why does the profession not have one single affiliation agreement that can be modified with a simple addendum, like The Common App for colleges? If you’re curious about what a standardized affiliation agreement might look like, check out my conversation on the KevinMD Podcast: How a Unified Agreement Could Help the Preceptor Shortage ConclusionThe shortage of nurse practitioner preceptors isn’t just a barrier to education—it’s a healthcare access issue. Without enough preceptors, we can’t graduate the nurse practitioners needed to serve communities across the country.
This is a fixable problem, but it requires teamwork. Schools, NPs, students, and healthcare leaders all have a role to play. If you're a nurse practitioner thinking about precepting, know that your time and expertise truly make a difference. If you're a student struggling to find a placement, don’t give up—support is out there. At PreceptorLink, we’re committed to making the process easier, more accessible, and more supportive for everyone involved. Visit PreceptorLink to find a preceptor or learn how you can become one. About the Author Lynn McComas is the CEO and founder of PreceptorLink and a recognized expert in precepting nurse practitioners and advanced practice provider students. With over two decades in primary care, Lynn has served as a coach, advisor, mentor, and preceptor for countless healthcare professionals, including NPs, nurses, and medical assistants. She co-founded a successful skills and procedures business and speaks nationwide on NP-related issues. Lynn is also a regular contributor on LinkedIn, KevinMD, Facebook, YouTube, Instagram @preceptorlink, X @LynnMcComas, and her blog, where she addresses the growing NP and PA professions and the urgent need for preceptor sites. Her unique perspective, shaped by her business, clinical, and educational experiences, positions her as a key voice in tackling preceptor shortages. Lynn is committed to driving change—through a paradigm shift in NP education, reducing barriers, offering preceptor incentives, and advocating for reforms within the profession.  Pursuing an advanced nursing degree, such as becoming a Nurse Practitioner (NP) or Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN) is of interest to many RNs. However, the financial burden associated with advanced nursing education can be substantial. Fortunately, there are numerous scholarships and resources available to help reduce costs.. This article explores key scholarship opportunities and resources that aspiring NPs and APRNs can consider.
Why Scholarships Matter for NP and APRN Students Pursuing an advanced nursing degree is not just academically demanding. It can be expensive! Scholarships can help qualified candidates advance their education. By securing scholarship support, students can focus more on clinical training and less on financial stress. These awards also reduce the need for loans, helping graduates enter the workforce with less debt, which is especially important in primary care roles that serve underserved populations. Financial aid is crucial, but so is securing strong clinical placements. Learn more about the preceptor challenges NP students face and how to plan ahead. 1. Federal Scholarship Programs National Health Service Corps (NHSC) Scholarship Program The NHSC Scholarship Program, administered by the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA), offers scholarships to students pursuing primary care health professions training, including nurse practitioner programs. In exchange for a commitment to provide primary care services in underserved communities, the scholarship covers tuition, fees, and provides a monthly stipend. The service obligation is typically two years, with the possibility of extension based on the length of scholarship support received. For more information, visit the NHSC Scholarships page.National Health Service CorpsBureau of Health Workforce+4National Health Service Corps+4National Health Service Corps+4Bureau of Health Workforce Nurse Corps Scholarship Program Also managed by HRSA, the Nurse Corps Scholarship Program provides financial support to nursing students in exchange for a minimum two-year, full-time service commitment at an eligible health care facility with a critical shortage of nurses. The scholarship covers tuition, eligible fees, and other reasonable costs and includes a monthly stipend. Preference is given to applicants with the greatest financial need. Details can be found on the Nurse Corps Scholarship Program page.Bureau of Health Workforce+3Bureau of Health Workforce+3Bureau of Health Workforce+3National Health Service Corps+3Bureau of Health Workforce+3National Health Service Corps+3 2. State and Regional Scholarships Advanced Practice Healthcare Scholarship Program (APHSP) – CaliforniaFor California residents, the APHSP offers scholarships to students pursuing advanced practice healthcare degrees, including nurse practitioners. Recipients commit to providing direct patient care in a qualified facility in California. The application cycle typically opens in August. More information is available on the APHSP page. Bureau of Health Workforce+2HCAI+2Bureau of Health Workforce+2 3. Professional Association Scholarships American Association of Nurse Practitioners (AANP) Scholarships The AANP offers scholarships ranging from $2,500 to $5,000 to its members who are enrolled in accredited graduate programs pursuing an advanced degree as a nurse practitioner. Applicants must have completed at least one semester and be scheduled to complete their program between August 2025 and July 2026. Visit the AANP Scholarships page for application details. AANP American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN) Scholarships AACN provides various scholarships for nursing students through partnerships with organizations like Uniform Advantage. These scholarships are awarded to students enrolled in master's and doctoral programs and are based on academic performance and financial need. Information on available scholarships can be found on the AACN Scholarships page. 4. Additional Scholarship Resources NursingCE Central – California RN Scholarships NursingCE Central offers a comprehensive list of scholarships for California RNs pursuing graduate nursing degrees. These scholarships cater to various specializations and can significantly offset tuition costs. Explore the list on the NursingCE Central Scholarships page. Nursing CE Central Scholarships.com – Nursing/Nurse Practitioner Scholarships Scholarships.com provides a directory of scholarships specifically for nursing and nurse practitioner students. The database includes scholarships with varying eligibility criteria and award amounts. Visit the Nursing/Nurse Practitioner Scholarships page for more information. Scholarships.com 5. Tips for Securing Scholarships
Final Words Paying for NP or APRN school isn’t easy, but you don’t have to do it alone. With so many scholarships, grants, and repayment options out there, taking the time to apply can really pay off. Stay organized, don’t wait until the last minute, and go after every opportunity you can. The effort you put in now can make a big difference for your future and for the patients you’ll care for down the road. Need a preceptor to complete your journey? Many times you can use your scholarship funds to help pay for our services. We’re here to help! Find your perfect match today. About the Author Lynn McComas is the CEO and founder of PreceptorLink and a recognized expert in precepting nurse practitioners and advanced practice provider students. With over two decades in primary care, Lynn has served as a coach, advisor, mentor, and preceptor for countless healthcare professionals, including NPs, nurses, and medical assistants. She co-founded a successful skills and procedures business and speaks nationwide on NP-related issues. Lynn is also a regular contributor on LinkedIn, KevinMD, Facebook, YouTube, Instagram @preceptorlink, X @LynnMcComas, and her blog, where she addresses the growing NP and PA professions and the urgent need for preceptor sites. Her unique perspective, shaped by her business, clinical, and educational experiences, positions her as a key voice in tackling preceptor shortages. Lynn is committed to driving change—through a paradigm shift in NP education, reducing barriers, offering preceptor incentives, and advocating for reforms within the profession.  I’m honored to share that I was recently published on KevinMD, one of the most widely read platforms in healthcare.
In my article, “The Preceptor Paradox: PAs Get the Nod While NPs Are Sidelined,” I explore a growing and perplexing trend in NP education: some schools are allowing Physician Assistants (PAs) to precept Acute Care NP (ACNP) students, while simultaneously telling experienced Family Nurse Practitioners (FNPs) they aren’t qualified to do the same. This inconsistency not only hurts students trying to complete their training, but it’s a broader issue of professional recognition and respect within advanced practice nursing. As someone who has worked in both the academic and clinical spaces, I believe this is a conversation we need to have, openly and constructively. 👉 Read the full article on KevinMD here. I welcome your feedback and experiences. Let’s bring clarity and equity to how NP students are trained. We need our FNPs working in AC with their wonderful AC backgrounds and experience!  If you're reading this, you're probably asking the same question hundreds of PMHNP students ask each semester: How do I find a PMHNP preceptor? And let me say this first--you’re not alone. As someone who works with nurse practitioner students every single day, I hear the stress, the frustration, and even the panic that comes with trying to secure a solid clinical rotation. In fact, I just got off the phone with a student, and you could hear it in her tearful voice. What you students often have to go through to find a preceptor is so challenging!
The search can feel like a full-time job—but with the right tools, a proactive approach, and a bit of support, you can absolutely find a PMHNP preceptor who helps you grow both professionally and personally. Let’s walk through what’s really going on out there—and how to get through it. Why It’s So Hard to Find a PMHNP Preceptor Right Now Before we dive into how to find a PMHNP preceptor, let’s talk about why it’s become such a challenge. When I speak with students and preceptors, there are a few common factors we see again and again:
How to Find a PMHNP Preceptor: Step-by-Step Ask Your School If They Have a Preceptor List This seems obvious, but I’m surprised how many students have not asked. Clearly schools have these lists because they have affiliations already. And an affiliation is key to success! Start Early—Earlier Than You Think One of the biggest mistakes I see students make is waiting too long. If your rotation starts in six months, you should already be searching now. In high-demand areas like psychiatry, many PMHNP preceptors are booked 6 to 12 months in advance. Use a calendar. Set weekly goals. Break the process into steps: research, outreach, follow-up, and documentation. This isn’t something you can leave for “later.” Tap Into Your Personal and Professional Network Before you send cold emails to 50 clinics, look around you. The best leads are often closer than you think:
One PMHNP student I worked with found a great rotation through a former RN manager who had transitioned to a psychiatric NP role. She didn’t know her manager even precepted, but asking the question opened the door. Tip: When reaching out, don’t just ask if they precept. Ask if they know someone who does. That opens up their network, not just their availability. Use Preceptor Directories and Online Platforms There are some great resources online—if you know where to look:
Reach Out to Local Clinics, Hospitals, and Private Practices This is where persistence really pays off. Make a list of psychiatric providers within your state or region and start emailing or calling. When reaching out, make sure your message is short, clear, and professional. Include:
And don’t forget to follow up! A polite nudge 5–7 days later can make a big difference. Consider Telehealth and Remote PMHNP Preceptors The pandemic changed everything—including clinical rotations. Many PMHNPs now offer telehealth services, and some are open to precepting students remotely. This option can be a game-changer, especially if:
Just make sure your school allows telehealth rotations and that you meet all state licensure and HIPAA requirements. Some state BONs have specific requirements for taking students from out of state too. (As if it wasn’t hard enough already!) Try a Preceptor Matching Service This is where we come in! I started PreceptorLink® because I saw how many students were struggling to find preceptors. I figured we could help with this challenging job. We’re a service, and like many services, sometimes it’s worth it to pay someone else to do a job you don’t want to or can’t do on your own. We help students who are overwhelmed, out of time, or just can’t get a “yes.” We do our best to vet every preceptor to help ensure they meet program standards, and we assist with matching, documentation, and coordination. This isn’t a shortcut—it’s a lifeline when your own search hits a wall. Pro Tip: The best PMHNP preceptors get booked quickly. If you plan to use a service, start the process early! And if you feel stuck, we’re here to help. Still wondering how to find a PMHNP preceptor? Visit PreceptorLink.com to get started. We believe in your journey—and we’re here to support it. About the Author Lynn McComas is the CEO and founder of PreceptorLink and a recognized expert in precepting nurse practitioners and advanced practice provider students. With over two decades in primary care, Lynn has served as a coach, advisor, mentor, and preceptor for countless healthcare professionals, including NPs, nurses, and medical assistants. She co-founded a successful skills and procedures business and speaks nationwide on NP-related issues. Lynn is also a regular contributor on LinkedIn, KevinMD, Facebook, YouTube, Instagram @preceptorlink, X @LynnMcComas, and her blog, where she addresses the growing NP and PA professions and the urgent need for preceptor sites. Her unique perspective, shaped by her business, clinical, and educational experiences, positions her as a key voice in tackling preceptor shortages. Lynn is committed to driving change—through a paradigm shift in NP education, reducing barriers, offering preceptor incentives, and advocating for reforms within the profession.  Would we love to be free? Absolutely! We actually believe that schools should be doing more to help NP students secure preceptors. Why Don’t All Schools Place NP Students in Clinical Rotations?—after all, clinical training is a core and mandatory part of your education. But the reality is that many schools don’t help, leaving students to find their own preceptors. All of this is exactly why I started PreceptorLink® over a decade ago—to help NP students navigate this frustrating process. I saw students complain on Facebook groups and the NP forums. I heard them begging for preceptors at the NP meetings. Fast forward 10 years and thousands of placements later, and we’re still here, committed to making the process easier for students. We’re the OG! So, is PreceptorLink free? No. But here’s why: For one, most of the time we provide an honorarium to our preceptors. Now, some preceptors don’t require an honorarium, and THAT is why we created the National Database of Paid and Unpaid Preceptors. We just charge our business expenses for those rotations. It also costs us money to find and secure quality preceptors. It’s a complex, time-consuming process. Our team works tirelessly to recruit, vet, and manage preceptors, handle paperwork, and ensure rotations go smoothly. Then there are tech costs. We constantly invest in our technology—(You might hear us refer to it as "The App") It’s an advanced web-based platform that we built from the ground up to provide as seamless an experience as possible for students, preceptors, sites, schools, and our team. Beyond that, we have regular business expenses, including e-commerce costs, customer service, legal and compliance fees, and normal operational overhead. Sadly, we simply can’t afford to be free. But time is money, and most students agree that it’s money well spent to hand this difficult job over to PreceptorLink®! If you’re ready to have PreceptorLink® find you a preceptor, follow these simple steps: 1️⃣ Visit PreceptorLink.com and click “Find A Preceptor.” 2️⃣ You can use the filters to search the database by specialty, location, and dates available, but know we have LOTS more preceptors than are listed. 3️⃣ Ideally, create a profile and a rotation. That way, we can see your specific needs and guide you appropriately. You can even add people to your Favorites. You can always reach out to us to confirm that the potential preceptor really has availability and is the right fit for your rotation. 4️⃣ Secure your preceptor! Don’t be confused by similar companies or names. PreceptorLink®- We are your LINK to clinical preceptors. 5️⃣ We even handle the paperwork if your school allows it in order to ensure a smooth rotation. We know how hard it is to find a preceptor—we’ve been doing this for over a decade, helping thousands of NP and APRN students secure high-quality clinical rotations. While we wish this process was easier (and free!), we’re here to take the stress off your plate. If you need a reliable, vetted, and experienced preceptor-matching service, PreceptorLink® is here to help. Let’s get you placed! 👉 Find a Preceptor Now We know how hard it is to find a preceptor—we’ve been doing this for over a decade, helping thousands of NP and APRN students secure high-quality clinical rotations. While we wish this process was easier (and free!), we’re here to take the stress off your plate. About the Author Lynn McComas is the CEO and founder of PreceptorLink and a recognized expert in precepting nurse practitioners and advanced practice provider students. With over two decades in primary care, Lynn has served as a coach, advisor, mentor, and preceptor for countless healthcare professionals, including NPs, nurses, and medical assistants. She co-founded a successful skills and procedures business and speaks nationwide on NP-related issues. Lynn is also a regular contributor on LinkedIn, KevinMD, Facebook, YouTube, Instagram @preceptorlink, X @LynnMcComas, and her blog, where she addresses the growing NP and PA professions and the urgent need for preceptor sites. Her unique perspective, shaped by her business, clinical, and educational experiences, positions her as a key voice in tackling preceptor shortages. Lynn is committed to driving change—through a paradigm shift in NP education, reducing barriers, offering preceptor incentives, and advocating for reforms within the profession.  It’s a frustrating reality for many NP students—unlike medical students and PA students, who are typically placed in clinical rotations by their schools, NP students are often left to find their own preceptors. But why?
Here are the key reasons schools don’t handle clinical placement for NP students: 1. Rapid Growth of NP Programs Over the past decade, the number of nurse practitioner programs has skyrocketed. NP program growth has far outpaced the availability of preceptors. Many schools simply don’t have (or spend) the resources to secure enough clinical sites for every student. 2. Limited Clinical Affiliations NP programs have partnerships, or Affiliations, with hospitals or clinics, but these slots are often limited. Many schools prioritize these placements for their local students or for specific specialties (such as hospital-based rotations). And most hospital systems are not adding new affiliations because they already have more requests than they can handle. 3. Accreditation Doesn’t Require It Unlike medical schools, which are required to place students in rotations as part of their accreditation, NP schools are not held to the same standard. Instead, they shift this responsibility to students, expecting them to network, cold-call, and find their own preceptors—all while balancing coursework and jobs. 4. Lack of Incentives for Preceptors Many preceptors are already stretched thin, and there are few financial or professional incentives for them to take on students. Schools often don’t offer or even allow competitive compensation or support for preceptors, making it difficult to secure committed mentors. And clinical sites often don’t allow precepting, adding to the problem. 5. Online and Hybrid Programs Increase Competition With more online and hybrid NP programs, students are often located all over the country. This means schools would have to secure hundreds or even thousands of clinical sites nationwide—a logistical challenge most programs simply aren’t equipped to handle. 6. Faculty and Staffing Limitations Coordinating preceptors takes a lot of time and effort. Many schools lack dedicated staff to build relationships with preceptors, manage paperwork, and ensure site availability. And faculty are busy teaching and often don’t have time to add securing preceptors to their day. Instead, schools leave it up to students, even though finding a preceptor is one of the hardest parts of NP education. The Bottom Line: Schools Should Do More—But They Often Don’t We truly believe that schools should be more involved in helping students find clinical placements. (And we do help schools find placements too!) But the reality is, many or most don’t—and that’s why services like PreceptorLink® exist. So if you need us, we’re here for you! More than 10 years and thousands of placements later, we’re still here, doing the hard work of recruiting and vetting preceptors so students can focus on learning, not hunting for rotations. If you’re struggling to find a preceptor, we’re here to help. 💬 What do you think? Let’s have a constructive, friendly conversation. I think we all agree that NP Education could use some changes. But in what ways?
Let’s hear your constructive feedback! Remember, I am an NP, so I’m on the side of the profession and support positive change! About the Author Lynn McComas is the CEO and founder of PreceptorLink and a recognized expert in precepting nurse practitioners and advanced practice provider students. With over two decades in primary care, Lynn has served as a coach, advisor, mentor, and preceptor for countless healthcare professionals, including NPs, nurses, and medical assistants. She co-founded a successful skills and procedures business and speaks nationwide on NP-related issues. Lynn is also a regular contributor on LinkedIn, KevinMD, Facebook, YouTube, Instagram @preceptorlink, X @LynnMcComas, and her blog, where she addresses the growing NP and PA professions and the urgent need for preceptor sites. Her unique perspective, shaped by her business, clinical, and educational experiences, positions her as a key voice in tackling preceptor shortages. Lynn is committed to driving change—through a paradigm shift in NP education, reducing barriers, offering preceptor incentives, and advocating for reforms within the profession. 👉 Find a Preceptor Now In a future post, we’ll explore what preceptors wish NP schools understood—and how small changes could improve clinical education for everyone.  Finding a preceptor as an NP student can be stressful, and the rise of preceptor matching companies has created both solutions and new risks. While legitimate companies exist, the industry has also attracted businesses that overpromise and underdeliver—some even verging on predatory practices.
So, how do you know if a preceptor matching company is legit? Before you trust a company with your education and hard-earned money, watch out for these red flags. 🚩 Red Flags in NP Preceptor Matching Companies 1. The “Too Good to Be True” Numbers Some companies claim to have placed thousands of students—yet they just launched a few months ago. Think about it: matching students with verified, quality preceptors takes time. If a company suddenly appears with massive placement claims, be suspicious… What to do: Check their website, social media history, and business registration records. If they just popped up and are making big claims, you already know they’re not honest! Walk away! 2. Copycat Companies with Suspiciously Similar Names Ever noticed how some companies mimic well-established names? If you see a preceptor matching service with a name strangely close to a trusted one, it might be an attempt to confuse students into thinking they’re dealing with a reputable business. Or if you reach out to who you think is PreceptorLink®, and suddenly find you are routed elsewhere, warning! This is a ploy that we are seeing these days! Hang up and come back to PreceptorLink®. What to do: Always verify the exact business name, domain, and company history. Just because a name sounds familiar doesn’t mean it’s trustworthy. 3. Fake or Overinflated 5-Star Reviews Some companies buy or use bots to create fake reviews. Some have their own coordinators write fake reviews. And some use unethical tactics to suppress negative feedback. This approach buries any negative feedback. Others block students from reviewing them on public platforms. What to do: Look beyond their website. If reviews seem too perfect or there’s no way to leave one, it might not be a trustworthy company. 4. Hidden Business Details & No Presence on BBB A trustworthy company should be easy to research. If a business hides key details—such as ownership, location, or even customer service contact info—it’s a sign they may not want to be held accountable. Some preceptor matching services also avoid listing themselves on the Better Business Bureau (BBB) or other consumer protection sites to avoid public complaints. What to do: Search for the company on BBB.org, check if they have a physical office or business registration, and look for real company leadership. Transparency matters. 5. Facebook & Forum Scams – Watch Out for WhatsApp Posts Another growing concern is the rise of scam posts in NP Facebook groups and online forums. These posts often promise "guaranteed preceptors" but provide little information beyond a WhatsApp number or a vague contact. Many of these are scammers who take payments and disappear—or place students with unqualified preceptors who may not meet school requirements. What to do: Never send money to an individual without verifying their credentials. Legitimate preceptor matching services have a real website, business presence, and transparent contact information. If a post lacks details or insists on WhatsApp communication only, it’s likely a scam. 6. Not NP-Owned or Run by Healthcare Professionals Would you trust a non-NP to understand your clinical training needs? Many preceptor matching companies are not founded or run by NPs—which means they may prioritize profits over quality. An NP-led company knows what it takes to succeed in clinical rotations. They vet preceptors with real-world experience and understand the unique challenges of NP students. What to do: Check who owns and runs the company. If you can’t find real NPs behind the business, that’s a concern. So, Are NP Preceptor Matching Companies Legit? Some are. Some aren't. The best companies are transparent, experienced, and led by professionals who genuinely care about NP students and the profession. Others use marketing tricks, fake reviews, and vague claims to take advantage of desperate students. 💙 Why PreceptorLink® is Different At PreceptorLink®, we believe in doing things the right way. ✅ Founded and led by an NP – We know the profession inside and out. And our seasoned team are kind, compassionate experts who’ve been with us for years! ✅ Over a decade of experience – Matching students with quality preceptors since 2014. ✅ Transparent and ethical – No fake reviews, no misleading claims. ✅ Preceptors are fully vetted – We screen preceptors for licensure, experience, and availability. ✅ Trusted by students and schools – We work with reputable NP programs nationwide. We’ve placed thousands of students and have tens of thousands of preceptors! Your clinical education is too important to leave to chance. If you need a preceptor, choose a company that values integrity, transparency, and real results. About the Author Lynn McComas is the CEO and founder of PreceptorLink and a recognized expert in precepting nurse practitioners and advanced practice provider students. With over two decades in primary care, Lynn has served as a coach, advisor, mentor, and preceptor for countless healthcare professionals, including NPs, nurses, and medical assistants. She co-founded a successful skills and procedures business and speaks nationwide on NP-related issues. Lynn is also a regular contributor on LinkedIn, KevinMD, Facebook, YouTube, Instagram @preceptorlink, X @LynnMcComas, and her blog, where she addresses the growing NP and PA professions and the urgent need for preceptor sites. Her unique perspective, shaped by her business, clinical, and educational experiences, positions her as a key voice in tackling preceptor shortages. Lynn is committed to driving change—through a paradigm shift in NP education, reducing barriers, offering preceptor incentives, and advocating for reforms within the profession. Ready to find a trusted preceptor? Visit PreceptorLink® and get matched with confidence.  After months of preparation for your NP program—balancing work, family, and coursework—you finally start to feel like you’re managing it all. But then, you hit a major roadblock: finding a preceptor. And no matter how hard you try, you can’t seem to find one.
You send out dozens of emails—silence. You call clinics—voicemail. You finally get a response, only to hear, “Sorry, we don’t take NP students.” Meanwhile, your program’s deadline is looming, and your stress level is through the roof. Sound familiar? If so, you’re not alone. We hear this every day from students! Why Does Finding a Preceptor Feel Harder Than Finding Your First Job? Nurse practitioners are in high demand, but finding a clinical preceptor can feel like an impossible scavenger hunt. Here’s why: 1. Schools Don’t Always Arrange Rotations Unlike medical students, who typically have clinical placements built into their training, NP students are often responsible for finding their own preceptors. Some schools offer assistance, but many leave students to fend for themselves. 2. Preceptors Are Overloaded Most preceptors are actively practicing providers, already stretched thin by patient care, documentation, and supervising their own staff. Adding a student to the mix is a big ask—especially when there’s no built-in compensation or structured support from institutions. Research highlights that these increasing burdens contribute to the ongoing shortage of available preceptors. 3. Competition Is Fierce You’re not just competing with other NP students. PA, MD, DO, and even RN students may be vying for the same clinical spots. The more specialized the rotation (e.g., psych, acute care, women’s health, pediatrics), the harder it is to find availability. 4. Misinformation and Red Tape Some students waste time chasing leads that go nowhere because schools don’t always provide clear guidance. Others secure a preceptor, only to find out that the site doesn’t meet school requirements. Standardized agreements between schools and clinical sites could help alleviate some of these barriers What You Can Do to Secure a Preceptor Without Losing Your Sanity 1. Start Early—Like, Really Early I cannot stress this enough: do not wait until the last minute to find a preceptor. If your rotation starts in six months, start looking now or even before that. Some preceptors book up a year in advance. And, start your search well before your preceptor’s info needs to be submitted. That takes time. 2. Use Your Network Ask past professors, supervisors, and colleagues if they know of any preceptors willing to take students. Sometimes, it’s all about who you know rather than how many cold emails you send. 3. Be Professional and Prepared When reaching out to potential preceptors: ✅ Have a polished email with your school’s clear requirements. Include your dates, due dates, number of clinical hours needed, and any special info they might need. ✅ Attach your CV and a brief intro about why you’re interested in their site. Would you be a good future hire?? ✅ Be flexible with scheduling and location. Remember, there is a LOT of competition out there! 4. Be Ready to Pay for a Preceptor (And Why That’s Okay) Let’s address the elephant in the room--paying for preceptors. Some students hesitate, but consider this:
At PreceptorLink®, we vet preceptors to help students make sure they meet school requirements. So as long as you are clear with your school’s requirements, we can help ensure the match is correct ahead of time. We’ve helped thousands of students secure rotations without the stress. 5. Consider Precepting in the Future It’s frustrating now, but remember: one day, you’ll be on the other side. When you’re an NP, consider precepting to help the next generation. Our profession only thrives when we support each other. Ready to Secure a Preceptor Without the Headache? You’ve got enough to juggle—let us handle the preceptor search. At PreceptorLink®, we match NP students with vetted preceptors across multiple specialties. No ghosting, no dead ends, just real opportunities to get your clinical hours done. 👉 Visit PreceptorLink® to get started today! About the Author Lynn McComas is the CEO and founder of PreceptorLink and a recognized expert in precepting nurse practitioners and advanced practice provider students. With over two decades in primary care, Lynn has served as a coach, advisor, mentor, and preceptor for countless healthcare professionals, including NPs, nurses, and medical assistants. She co-founded a successful skills and procedures business and speaks nationwide on NP-related issues. Lynn is also a regular contributor on LinkedIn, KevinMD, Facebook, YouTube, Instagram @preceptorlink, X @LynnMcComas, and her blog, where she addresses the growing NP and PA professions and the urgent need for preceptor sites. Her unique perspective, shaped by her business, clinical, and educational experiences, positions her as a key voice in tackling preceptor shortages. Lynn is committed to driving change—through a paradigm shift in NP education, reducing barriers, offering preceptor incentives, and advocating for reforms within the profession.  Becoming a preceptor is an important professional milestone, whether you’re an NP, APRN, MD, DO, PA, therapist, or part of another clinical discipline. It’s both an opportunity to mentor the next generation of healthcare professionals and a chance to elevate your own practice through teaching and collaboration. You’re stepping into the educator’s shoes, and precepting can be incredibly rewarding, it also comes with a few key considerations you’ll want to keep in mind. Let’s provide some real-world examples to illustrate what you might expect. You’ll also learn the crucial questions to ask, so that everyone starts off on the right foot and remains on track throughout the rotation 1. Understanding Your Role and ResponsibilitiesMentor, Instructor, Evaluator At its core, your job is to mentor a student, help refine their clinical skills, guide them in critical thinking, and evaluate their readiness for real-world practice. What does that look like in an everyday sense? Sometimes, it means letting them perform patient intakes or histories and then asking them thought-provoking questions to hone their diagnostic skills. Other times, it may require stepping in with constructive feedback if they miss a critical piece of information during the assessment. Balancing Patient Care and Teaching Precepting isn’t always about giving the student a chance to do everything on their own. Often, the best lessons happen in real time—watching how you interact with patients, making clinical decisions, or switching gears when something unexpected arises (like a patient crashing or needing urgent care). It’s a process of “show, then do” with your student. Time Investment Most schools expect you to commit to a set number of hours per week tailored around your existing clinical workload. It can be challenging to juggle your time, but the end goal is to see your student grow into a more competent, confident clinician under your guidance. As they progress, the hope is that they might actually help your practice! 2. What to Expect from the SchoolOrientation and Resources Different schools have varied orientations and resources for preceptors. You may be provided with course objectives, clinical checklists, or even online modules. Some institutions also offer stipends or continuing education credits as a token of appreciation. (Here at PreceptorLink®, we do offer an honorarium to preceptors.) It’s worth asking your point of contact how to access these resources—and if there are any additional supports for complex scenarios, like students struggling with specific competencies. Faculty Communication Typically, a designated faculty member at the school (often referred to as a clinical coordinator or liaison) should be available if you need guidance or have concerns. Expect check-ins, either via email or phone, to ensure everything is running smoothly. Keep those lines open. If you notice a student having consistent trouble, talk to the student about your concerns. If the problem continues, reach out to the faculty to discuss your concerns. Early interventions can make all the difference. Administrative Support Schools often require documentation of clinical hours, student evaluations, and progress reports. Some preceptors find this tedious, but it’s a necessary step to ensure that the student meets the program’s requirements. Before the rotation starts, clarify how often you need to submit documentation and in what format. Save yourself future headaches by setting up a simple system—whether it’s a spreadsheet, calendar reminders, or notes in an online portal. 3. Essential Questions to Ask—Before and During the Rotation- What are the Course Objectives? There should be a syllabus or objective checklist from the student or faculty contact. Knowing the learning goals upfront helps you tailor clinical experiences. Example: If the objective is to master basic women’s health, you would prioritize shadowing experiences in women’s health patients. - What’s the Student’s Baseline? Each student arrives at your door with a unique background. Some have done prior rotations or related experience, while others might be new to your area of practice. It’s always good to ask about their prior experience/rotation to assess their level of experience. Example: If an Acute Care student has extensive experience in an ICU might be ready for more advanced tasks like complex medication titration or analyzing ventilator settings. - What’s the Preferred Communication Method? Clarify how you’ll interact with the faculty advisor and the student. Is it via phone, email, or an online portal? How quickly should they expect responses? You might want to note the date for evaluations and the faculty contact on a calendar reminder. Example: You might note that you prefer email for routine check-ins and phone calls for anything urgent. Communicating these boundaries early prevents misunderstandings. Some schools require specific methods of communication, such as logging into the school’s portal, which can sometimes be challenging. - How Will We Handle Feedback and Evaluations? I suggest providing constructive feedback consistently, not just at the midpoint or end of the rotation. Tell students how you do things so they are not surprised. Example: If a student struggles with patient communication, you might debrief them immediately after the encounter, highlighting what went well and identifying areas for improvement. - What Challenges Might Arise and How Do We Address Them? No rotation goes 100% smoothly. Patients cancel, the office is short-staffed, or unforeseen emergencies happen. Discuss with your student how to stay flexible yet proactive. Example: If you anticipate a low census for certain types of patients (like peds or women’s health), see if a colleague in another department can host the student for a day. Or, if it’s ok, have the student call some peds/WH patients who are due for follow-up and schedule them to come in on days when the student can be there. 4. Real-World Scenarios: Preparing for Common HurdlesScenario A: The Overzealous Student Sometimes, you get a student who’s eager to jump into every procedure without really understanding the rationale behind it. In this situation:
Scenario B: The Hesitant Learner This student is bright but lacks confidence. They hang back in patient rooms and rely on you to lead. Combat this by:
Scenario C: The Unexpected Clinical Twist Your practice or hospital might be busy, short-staffed, or dealing with an unusual patient population. While it may sound chaotic:
5. Setting Goals and Measuring SuccessEstablishing Clear, Measurable Objectives Early in the rotation, set goals that align with the program’s requirements but also cater to the student’s interests and needs. Revisit these goals at midpoint evaluations and again at the end of the rotation to gauge progress. Tracking Progress Many programs have rubrics or competency checklists. Keep these updated and share them with the student, so they know exactly where they stand. Feeling “in the dark” about performance is stressful for students, so a transparent approach helps build their confidence and encourages skill development. 6. The Rewards of Being a PreceptorDespite the added responsibilities, precepting is an incredible way to give back to the profession. Teaching forces you to stay up-to-date with current best practices, refine your own clinical reasoning, and cultivate a new generation of clinicians who can positively impact patient care. Plus, you’ll forge lasting professional relationships and possibly discover a newfound passion for education. Who knows? You may even find a new hire! 7. Ready to Take the Next Step?If you’re feeling inspired and want to make a real difference in someone’s clinical training:
By stepping up as a preceptor, you’re shaping the next generation of nurse practitioners or APRNs —and that’s a legacy worth investing in. About the Author Lynn McComas is the CEO and founder of PreceptorLink and a recognized expert in precepting nurse practitioners and advanced practice provider students. With over two decades in primary care, Lynn has served as a coach, advisor, mentor, and preceptor for countless healthcare professionals, including NPs, nurses, and medical assistants. She co-founded a successful skills and procedures business and speaks nationwide on NP-related issues. Lynn is also a regular contributor on LinkedIn, KevinMD, Facebook, YouTube, Instagram @preceptorlink, X @LynnMcComas, and her blog, where she addresses the growing NP and PA professions and the urgent need for preceptor sites. Her unique perspective, shaped by her business, clinical, and educational experiences, positions her as a key voice in tackling preceptor shortages. Lynn is committed to driving change—through a paradigm shift in NP education, reducing barriers, offering preceptor incentives, and advocating for reforms within the profession.  This was real feedback on a recent survey asking about our student’s performance:
Excellent. I have since hired her! That’s right! Clinical rotations aren’t just a rite of passage before graduation—they can be your gateway to securing a future job. You’re onstage every day: your preceptor and site are watching how you handle yourself with patients, staff, and other providers. Those observations often lead to job offers for standout students. Of course, clinical rotations give students the opportunity to decide if they might want to work at that site after graduation. Regardless, treat it as a potential opportunity because connections and WOM count. Why It’s More Than Just a Rotation Think about it this way: your preceptor invests time and energy to guide you through real-world patient care. If you prove yourself to be reliable and professional, you’re one step closer to being considered a future colleague. When healthcare organizations face staff shortages or expansion plans, hiring a known entity (like a well-performing student) often feels like the safer, smarter choice. Be Prepared Like You Would for an Interview Just as you’d prepare for a job interview, show up on your rotation ready to exceed expectations:
Not sure where to start? Check out our guide on How to Prepare for Your First Day of NP Clinical Rotations to ensure you're set up for success from day one. Maintain a Professional Demeanor In many ways, your clinical rotation can be your “audition” for a future role in that very clinic or hospital. Employers (including your preceptor) look for someone who not only has clinical knowledge but also demonstrates professionalism:
Embrace the Student Role (But Show Initiative) Yes, you’re there to learn, but you’re also a future colleague. Find a balance:
Showcase Adaptability Real-world healthcare rarely goes as planned, so your flexibility matters. If a patient's schedule changes or if you’re asked to help in a different department, go with the flow. Preceptors value NP students who can pivot quickly without complaining. Network with Purpose Your clinical rotation is one of the best places to build your professional network:
Real-World Example: Ashley’s Story Ashley was one of our NP students, and she completed her final rotation at a busy urgent care clinic. Our preceptor reported that he hired her because she was consistently punctual, often arriving 15 minutes early to organize charts and prep exam rooms. When her preceptor introduced new procedures, she’d do a quick literature review at home, then come back ready to discuss them the next day. Most importantly, she treated everyone with respect—she learned the front desk team’s names and helped clean up exam rooms when the clinic got swamped. By the time Ashley wrapped up her rotation, she had made a strong impression. The urgent care offered her a position before she even graduated. Her commitment, teamwork, and proactive approach told them she was a great fit. Real-World Example: Marcus’s Story Marcus was placed with one of our preceptors at a small family practice clinic. While he excelled academically, he often left tasks unfinished and arrived just on time or slightly late. At times, he would say things that the team did not feel were appropriate. Our preceptor reported that her team felt they had to watch him closely. Despite his solid clinical skills, the clinic wasn’t comfortable offering him a position afterward. When a job opening arose three months later, they chose another candidate who had rotated there, citing better time management and communication skills. Consider Your Online Presence In today’s digital world, preceptors often do a quick online search of their students. Make sure your social media profiles reflect the same professional image you display in the clinic. If you blog or maintain a professional Instagram or TikTok, ensure your content aligns with healthcare standards and patient privacy regulations. Document Your Achievements Some ideas to consider: Treat your clinical rotation like a portfolio project. If it feels appropriate (and you have time!), you may want to keep track of:
Secure Future References Ask your preceptor—and even other team members—to be a reference if you’ve built a good relationship. A positive recommendation from a seasoned clinician can hold a lot of weight in hiring decisions. Just remember to keep that relationship warm with occasional updates on your progress post-rotation. Final Thoughts A clinical rotation isn’t just another box to check off on your path to graduation—it’s a potential job interview. With the right preparation, attitude, and consistent professionalism, you can position yourself as the kind of new graduate that clinics and hospitals want to hire. Like Ashley, you could wrap up your rotation with a job offer in hand—or at least strong references and a professional network that can lead you to exciting opportunities. About the Author Lynn McComas is the CEO and founder of PreceptorLink and a recognized expert in precepting nurse practitioners and advanced practice provider students. With over two decades in primary care, Lynn has served as a coach, advisor, mentor, and preceptor for countless healthcare professionals, including NPs, nurses, and medical assistants. She co-founded a successful skills and procedures business and speaks nationwide on NP-related issues. Lynn is also a regular contributor on LinkedIn, KevinMD, Facebook, YouTube, Instagram @preceptorlink, X @LynnMcComas, and her blog, where she addresses the growing NP and PA professions and the urgent need for preceptor sites. Her unique perspective, shaped by her business, clinical, and educational experiences, positions her as a key voice in tackling preceptor shortages. Lynn is committed to driving change—through a paradigm shift in NP education, reducing barriers, offering preceptor incentives, and advocating for reforms within the profession. |
About Lynn:As a longtime NP with a desire to help and make positive changes to her beloved profession, Lynn often writes opinion pieces about the NP profession. Archives
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