Why choose an advanced practice nurse as your health care provider?
What exactly is a nurse practitioner (NP), and how are they different from nurses or physicians? If you don’t know the answer to these questions, know that you’re not alone. Many people aren’t sure what nurse practitioners do and how they can care for your health and well-being.
According to the American Association of Nurse Practitioners (AANP 2016), nurse practitioners are licensed, independent clinicians focused on managing people’s health conditions and preventing disease. Many nurse practitioners specialize in family medicine, pediatrics, women’s health or acute care. Some also subspecialize in areas such as oncology, cardiovascular health and more.
Nurse practitioners diagnose and treat patients in primary and specialty care practices. They also prescribe medications, lab services, X-rays or specialized care, based on each patient’s condition. Their qualifications include:
- Licensed as registered nurses
- Advanced education and clinical training
- Holds a separate NP license in a specific area of practice
- Trained to work independently or alongside medical doctors
There’s no doubt about it: nurse practitioners provide high-quality health care. With their training and background, they are fully qualified to care for your health needs.
Choose a nurse practitioner to care for your health and well-being
Professional training. Nurse practitioners are fully qualified and trained to diagnose, treat and prescribe, based on your health needs. Whether in primary care or a specialty, a NP can make a difference in your health and wellbeing.
Specialized care. Every NP holds nationally recognized certification in a specific area of care, such as family medicine, pediatrics, women’s health or acute care.
Wellness focus. Nurse practitioners focus on health promotion, education, counseling and disease prevention. That’s why an NP can assist you in making smart health and lifestyle choices.
Coordinated care. Nurse practitioners are licensed to prescribe and coordinate the health care you need when you need it. You can rely on an NP to provide high quality care that fits your personal health concerns.
Do you need a primary care provider? If so, download our welcoming new patients directory or call (574) 537-5000. Goshen Physicians has offices located throughout Goshen and surrounding areas.