Psychiatric–Mental Health Nurse Practitioners: Addressing the Growing Mental Health Needs of the Population: A Narrative Review

Background: Mental health needs are rising globally, while workforce shortages constrain access to timely care. Israel launched formal training for Psychiatric–Mental Health Nurse Practitioners (PMHNPs) in 2023 as part of broader efforts to strengthen the public mental health system. This narrative review synthesizes international and Israeli evidence on PMHNP roles, models of practice, outcomes, and implementation considerations relevant to the Israeli context. Methods: A narrative literature review was conducted using PubMed/MEDLINE, CINAHL, PsycINFO, and Scopus (January 2000–December 2024), along with targeted policy and regulatory documents. Eligible sources addressed NP/PMHNP roles, scope of practice, clinical outcomes, implementation processes, workforce implications, or policy considerations in high-income health systems. Findings were synthesized thematically. Results: Across diverse settings, PMHNP-delivered care was generally comparable in quality and safety to psychiatrist-led or physician-led care, and was associated with improved accessibility, continuity, and high patient satisfaction. Successful implementation depended on regulatory clarity, organizational readiness, interprofessional collaboration, and the development of a clear professional identity. In Israel, the role is emerging within a cautious regulatory framework and may face early barriers related to role ambiguity, variable organizational support, and limited stakeholder awareness. Conclusions: Strategic, system-level implementation of the PMHNP role-aligned with regulation, training, and supportive organizational structures-may help expand access to mental health services and strengthen continuity of care in Israel amid growing demand.