Carson City November 29, 2022
The American Association of Nurse Practitioners announced the recipients of their State Award for Excellence for Advocacy for 2023. The administrator of the Division of Child and Family Services, Dr. Cindy Pitlock, DNP, CNM, APRN was awarded the honor of being this year’s Advocate for Nevada.
The Advocate State Award for Excellence is given to an individual in each state who has made a significant contribution toward increasing awareness and recognition of Nurse Practitioners (NPs).
“Advocating for Nevada’s families and Nevada’s nurse practitioners are my passions. I believe all Nevadans deserve access to high-quality health care, and nurse practitioners are a vital part of our system. On the behalf of more than 3,500 Advanced Practice Registered Nurses (APRNs) in Nevada, I feel honored to accept this award,” said Dr. Pitlock.
To be considered for this prestigious award, the nominee had to make a significant contribution toward increasing awareness and recognition of nurse practitioners through ongoing work in policy, practice, and education at the state level in three or more of the following areas:
• Supported and promoted the role of NPs.
• Increased awareness and recognition of NPs and NP practice.
• Had a positive impact on the NP profession.
• Engaged in policy issues in the legislative or regulatory arenas that impact NP practice.
• Provided mentorship and leadership in health policy, practice, or education for NPs.
• Influenced health policy legislation by advocating for the removal of practice barriers which has led to the advancement of the NP profession at the state level.
• Recognized as a visionary leader at the state level for NPs in health policy, practice, or education.
Dr. Pitlock has 19 years in the nursing field, with an advanced practice specialty in women’s health. As the former President of the Nevada Advanced Practice Association, Dr. Pitlock has advocated for full-scope practice authority, improved access to care in underserved communities, billing reimbursement parity, and most recently has led the securing of $6 million in American Rescue Plan funding for scholarships for Nevada’s Registered Nurses to become APRNs. She has also taught academically and clinically at all levels of care delivery from undergraduate through medical residents.
“Dr. Pitlock shows an unparalleled dedication to her work and helping Nevadans,” said DHHS Director Richard Whitley. “This is well-deserved recognition, and I am proud she is part of our DHHS team.”