Tell me your "WHY".....

I joined LANP as a student and maintained my membership since graduating in 2011. The "why" includes
1. Professional responsibility
2. Ongoing, current legislative updates
3. Continuing education offerings that are pertinent
4. Networking with peers at GNO dinner meetings
5. Solid leadership that strives to move our profession toward FPA

I first joined LANP in 2018, when I had already been an NP for a few years. The main reason I joined then was to go to the conference. I didn't join right after getting licensed due to cost, and joined once I worked somewhere that would pay for the fee (I made very little money at my first few jobs so money was the main issue). My membership then lapsed, mostly because I just didn't think about it. When it came time to renew, it just wasn't important. I like getting the emails updating about what is going on with government-related issues as well as the jobs, upcoming events, and preceptor information. With all the changes in LA's rules right now, I definitely enjoy the updates and do plan to renew later this year when it's time. A 2 year option would be really nice because one wouldn't have to think about it for a few years.

Thanks Ms Janis! I love the suggestion of a 2 year renewal. Did you know that you can set your membership to automatic renew and receive a discount?

Ms Pam, Thank you so much for your unending willingness to help and be involved!! We are super lucky to have you in the GNO region!

Initially I joined LANP as a student in the hunt for a preceptor. Prior to COVID -I continued being a member of LANP, because I enjoyed attending meetings and interacting with other NPs in the area. I also enjoy the updates on policies and legislature. I would like to be more involved in the future. I am truly inspired by the entrepreneurship and drive of the NPs I have met.

Thanks Melissa! You are right, we have some fantastic Men and Women in our region! COVID has changed a lot this year, but hoping to get some more meetings going soon!!!

I joined as a student ( still am). I was advised by a member of LANP that becoming a member would benefit me by: assisting with locating preceptors, attending meetings that consisted of informative topics and great food, and being able to network with great NPs. I look forward to completing my program and having more time to give contribute to
LANP.

I joined LANP to stay connect and up-to-date with the current NP issues and trends. I also believe that NP can lead the way to create healthier communities especially for our children which is my passion as a pediatric nurse practitioner.

My "why"initially 20+ years ago was continuing education and socializing. Meet up and socialize with local members and state members at yearly conference. Granted I joined 20 + years ago as a student. I see many benefits to joining the organization. However over time things have changed, as they do. Not always for the better. The cost of membership has significantly increased to the point where it can be cost prohibitive for some. At one point the conference did not cover the states requirements for CEUs. That seems to have improved greatly. I don't think anyone can argue against the benefit of the PAC. They truly do advocate for our profession and legal issues that arise that could greatly hinder or progress and our scope of practice. The back and forth between Shreveport (North La) and NOLA (south La.) for the conference is quite annoying. I understand the added cost of hotel accommodations to the conference can also play a role. My first meeting I ever attended, was in Lafayette. National conferences by AANP and ANCC tend to give more CEUS, and if you have to travel and pay hotel accommodations, going someplace nice or out of state may have a bigger draw and more benefits. Plus you want to also be a member of your certifying body for license renewal. Which is an Additional cost. I can definitely see why the membership waxes and wanes. When I first joined we had weekly then every other week then monthly ceu meetings at a restraunt, with your local members. Huge plus. That doesn't happen any more. So that benefit is gone. Online CEUs are an additional cost, a benefit which is included in your national certifying body. These are the hurdles I see the organization are facing with membership.

Why? Because I enjoy learning from nurse practitioners and networking through LANP meetings is the best place to meet seasoned practitioners willing to mentor new graduates like myself.