Improving student knowledge and perceptions of primary care providers at campus health centers

Objective: To examine current knowledge and perceptions toward primary care providers commonly staffed at student health centers (PAs and NPs), and also assess the effectiveness of information-rich provider biographies to improve knowledge and perceptions. Participants: One thousand six hundred forty six students from 2 universities in 2 states participated in this study from February to November, 2016. Methods: An online survey. Students were exposed to an improved biography of an NP discussing how she can perform many of the same duties as primary care physicians. Changes in knowledge and perceptions were assessed pre- and post-biography exposure. Results: More than half of students are unaware NPs and PAs can prescribe medications and diagnose illnesses. Students exposed to the biography increased their knowledge of NPs, and perceptions of their expertise. Conclusions: Results suggest improved provider biographies on student health centers' websites can help reduce the knowledge deficit that exists among students regarding common primary care providers.