West Virginia Continuing Education Requirements

West Virginia, also known as the “Mountain State,” is famously home to the Appalachian Mountains, which make their way through the heart of the state. Many believe that the mountain chain, which stretches from as far south as Georgia to as far north as Pennsylvania, is one of the oldest mountain formations in the world.

Built on coal country, the majority of West Virginia counties are considered rural areas, with more people living in several smaller towns spread out throughout the state instead of a single, larger city. When working as a nurse practitioner in a more rural area, you tend to see different opportunities and challenges than those working in big cities.

Researchers found that working in more rural areas can result in a more rewarding, life-long career path for some working in the nursing profession. When working in a rural area in general, you tend to get to know your patients and the local community better, resulting in longer career retention and focus on seeing your patients’ health improve. However, there are also downsides to working in a rural area, such as feeling isolated and having a lack of support. In more isolated areas, it can also be overwhelming at times being the sole provider and support system to a patient, which can lead to “burn out” on the job.

Whether you find the mountains calling you home or maybe you just want a change of pace from the hustle and bustle of a big city, working in West Virginia could be the right lifelong career path for you.