AANP and ANCC are the two primary certifying bodies for Nurse Practitioners (NPs) in the United States. While both organizations offer certification exams and support professional development, there are some key differences between them:ANCC (American Nurses Credentialing Center)
- Focus: Broader scope encompassing clinical practice, research, and leadership.
- Certification Areas: Offers a wider range of certifications beyond primary care, including specialties like Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (ACNP) and Gerontological Nurse Practitioner (GNP).
- Exam Format: Includes questions on professional role, research, and leadership in addition to clinical practice.
AANP (American Association of Nurse Practitioners)
- Focus: Primarily clinical practice-oriented.
- Certification Areas: Offers certification in various specialties like Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP), Adult-Gerontology Nurse Practitioner (AGNP), and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP).
- Exam Format: Typically more clinically focused, with a strong emphasis on assessment, diagnosis, and treatment planning.