12 RiversideHealthcare.org When it comes to getting excellent primary care, doctors aren’t the only providers. In fact, at many medical offices, a nurse practitioner (NP) might be the one to take care of you. So you might want to know a little about NPs and what they can do for you. Highly trained and qualified Riverside Internal Medicine Nurse Practitioner Tammie Henderson says, “NPs are highly trained and qualified healthcare providers. They’re registered nurses who have additional medical training and national certification. They also have either a master’s or a doctoral degree.” Many NPs provide primary and specialty care. They work in a variety of settings, such as clinics, hospitals, immediate care sites and senior living facilities. Like doctors, they can diagnose and treat many illnesses and injuries. And they consult with doctors when needed. For instance, an NP may: ● Perform your physical exam ● Diagnose and treat various health conditions like diabetes or an infection ● Perform and order tests ● Prescribe medicines ● Teach you how to make healthy lifestyle choices to prevent or manage an illness In fact, NPs tend to emphasize prevention, health education, and the overall well-being and health of their patients. That makes NPs excellent partners in your care! Sources: American Association of Nurse Practitioners; Bureau of Labor Statistics What is a nurse practitioner? To find a primary care nurse practitioner for you and your family, visit myrhc.net/ acceptingnew.
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