Burnout in Nurse Practitioners: Why Private Practice Might Be the Antidote

Burnout is becoming more common in healthcare—and nurse practitioners are feeling it, too. A 2024 Medscape survey found that 37% of NPs reported feeling burned out, and another 28% said they were both burned out and depressed. These aren’t just numbers—they’re real people trying to do meaningful work while being stretched too thin.

The biggest causes of burnout for NPs? Too much admin work, high patient loads, and a lack of autonomy. Many employed NPs spend more time wrestling with EMRs and productivity targets than connecting with patients. In large healthcare systems, there’s little room to shape your own pace, priorities, or workflow. You’re expected to fit into the system—even when it doesn’t work for you.

But here’s the good news: it doesn’t have to be that way.

In small, independent practices, burnout rates drop dramatically—to just 13.5%. That’s a huge difference. Why? Because NPs in private practice have something they often lack in employed roles: control.

When you run your own practice—or work in a small, NP-led clinic—you get to decide how your day looks. You choose how many patients you see, how long your visits last, and what kind of care you provide. You can build a workday that supports your wellbeing, not just your to-do list. You can create a calm environment, pick your own EMR, and hire staff that align with your values. The work isn’t necessarily easier—but it’s yours.

Yes, private practice comes with its own set of challenges. You have to manage a business, handle expenses, and build a client base. But for many NPs, those responsibilities feel more meaningful than draining. You’re not stuck in someone else’s system—you’re creating your own.

If you’re feeling exhausted, disconnected, or just done with the grind, private practice might be the reset you need. It’s more than a career move—it’s a way to reclaim your energy, purpose, and peace. With the right support and guidance, you can absolutely build something sustainable.

Burnout is real—but so is the possibility of thriving. You don’t have to keep pouring from an empty cup. There’s another way.