APRN stands for Advanced Practice Registered Nurse. An APRN is a nursing professional who has met advanced educational and clinical practice requirements and often provides services in community-based settings. APRNs include nurse practitioners, clinical nurse specialists, nurse anesthetists, and nurse midwives, and all play a pivotal role in the future of healthcare. They are often primary care providers and are at the forefront of providing preventive care services to the public. APRNs treat and diagnose illnesses, advise the public on health issues, manage chronic disease, and engage in continuous education to remain ahead of any technological, methodological, or other developments in the field. APRNs hold at least a Master’s degree, in addition to the initial nursing education and licensing required for all Registered Nurses (RNs). In most states, APRNs are licensed through a state board of nursing to provide patient care within their role and patient population focus, and in many states have the authority to prescribe medication and practice independently without physician oversight.