In today's expanding healthcare world, physicians and nurses are no longer the only people caring for the community. In order for patients to feel comfortable with their care, it is important to understand the new roles and positions that are developing in healthcare. One role that is new to many communities in northeast Indiana is that of a nurse practitioner. Although nurse practitioners have been around for almost 26 years, their presence is expanding in the Parkview Health System and many physician offices. A nurse practitioner is a certified registered nurse with advanced education, healthcare skills and training.
Nurse practitioners work in collaboration with physicians.
Physicians serve as a resource to nurse practitioners in order to provide another level of primary care. The main advantage to seeing a nurse practitioner for primary healthcare needs is time. Nurse practitioners are often more available and economical and their care includes a primary focus on education and prevention. Nurse practitioners are highly trained to assess and diagnose healthcare problems, obtain medical histories, perform physical examinations, order and interpret diagnostic studies such as lab work and x-rays. They are also qualified to treat both minor and acute illnesses as well as chronic health problems such as diabetes.