Healthcare is changing constantly, and so are the roles nurses play within it. While nursing has historically been a career that takes place largely at a patient’s bedside, the rise of telehealth and new digital technologies has expanded opportunities for virtual nurse practitioner jobs. RN remote careers and virtual nurse practitioner jobs have never been more common, opening new doors for flexibility, professional growth, and career satisfaction in nursing.
Why Virtual Nursing Jobs are on the Rise
The expansion of telehealth services and technology is fueling the growth of remote nursing roles. Virtual visits have become common in primary care, specialty care, and chronic disease management. More and more organizations are offering these services. This trend is, in part, a response to patient needs and awareness of telehealth visits. Now that they know it’s possible, patients are seeking convenient, home-based care, especially for follow-ups and chronic conditions. The advancement of technology has also been crucial to the increase in virtual nursing jobs and telehealth services. Secure video platforms, electronic health records (EHRs), and remote monitoring tools make it easier than ever for nurses to deliver quality care virtually.
Types of Virtual Nursing Jobs
Remote nursing careers cover a wide array of opportunities. Some roles may be fully remote, while others may require you to split your time between working in-person and virtually. Depending on your education, experience, and career goals, you might find remote nursing opportunities such as:
1. Virtual Triage Nurse
Virtual triage nurses work via phone or video to assess symptoms, provide care advice, and determine whether a patient should seek in-person care. RNs or nurse practitioners may hold this virtual nursing job.
2. Telehealth RN
Registered nurses working in telehealth assist providers during virtual visits. They review patient histories, educate patients on conditions and medications, and monitor progress through regular follow-up appointments. These registered nurse virtual jobs may be available to nurses working in specialty areas or those caring for a broader population.
3. Case Management Nurse
Case management is another of the most common RN remote careers. These nurses coordinate long-term care for patients with chronic illnesses, injuries, or complex treatment plans. Much of this work, including patient education, scheduling, and follow-up, can be done remotely.
4. Remote Nurse Educator
Nurses with teaching skills can work as educators for patients, nursing students, or healthcare staff. They may develop online training materials or conduct virtual classes. (Nurses who want to be nurse educators may benefit from earning an advanced degree with a specialization in the field.)
5. Virtual Nurse Practitioner
Becoming a nurse practitioner opens up opportunities to diagnose, treat, and prescribe medications via telehealth. Virtual nurse practitioner jobs are increasingly common in primary care, mental health, and women’s health. To become a nurse practitioner, you’ll need a graduate education, such as a master’s degree.
6. Insurance and Utilization Review Nurse
Insurance companies and healthcare organizations employ remote nurses to review medical claims. These nurses ensure care is appropriate and help reduce unnecessary costs.
Is Remote Nursing Right for You?
Remote nursing roles may be ideal if you value flexibility in your work schedule and environment. You’ll also need to be comfortable using electronic health systems, video conferencing tools, and other technologies. You should also be aware that remote nursing jobs are still demanding. Remote nursing jobs require strong critical thinking, independence, and the ability to build trust and rapport with patients virtually. (See our tips for telehealth nursing and remote patient care.)
Preparing for a Virtual Nursing Career
Virtual nursing jobs will never entirely replace bedside nursing. Both in-person and virtual roles are integral to the future of patient care. Whether you’re interested in RN careers or advancing to a nurse practitioner role, remote opportunities allow you to combine the compassion of nursing with the flexibility of modern technology.
Education is key if you’re a nurse considering the transition to remote work (or a student thinking about how to prepare for the future of nursing). A Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) may be preferred for roles like telehealth RN and case manager, while virtual nurse practitioner jobs require a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) or higher.
At South University, our nursing programs can help you position yourself to take advantage of new and emerging opportunities in nursing. Request information today to learn more!
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Graduates are required to pass the national certification exam and obtain a state license in order to work in the field. (Exam names vary by program.) Please refer to the State Professional Licensure Determination and National Certification/Licensure section of the University catalog for additional information. South University cannot guarantee each graduate will pass the required licensure examinations. South University does not promise or guarantee licensure, employment, or salary amounts.
Programs, including all Clinical/Medical programs have a required ground clinical, practicum, or externship requirement. We cannot guarantee flexibility in these components of the program.
