There’s an app for that. Have you heard of Advanced Practice Practitioners (aka APPs)? We’re going to dive into who + what they are, how they can help patients, and the critical role they play in the medical community.

You may have already seen an APP. They’re physician assistants, nurse practitioners, and may hold the credentials of FNP, DNP, PA, or NP. Medical practices that utilize APPs can improve access to care by allowing patients to get in for an appointment in a timely fashion, often allowing for more same-day appointment availability. Studies show that patients seen by an APP vs. a physician show no significant difference in outcomes or satisfaction.

To shed a bit more light on APPs, we spoke to Shakilya Khalif, FNP, a Family Nurse Practitioner at Palmetto Primary Care Physicians’ Forest Acres office:

Q: What would you say to patients hesitant to see an APP vs. a physician?

A: There are several patients who are hesitant to see a Nurse Practitioner (NP) versus a physician. The reaction probably comes from fear and uncertainty. Most times, I find that patients are not aware of how good NPs are. There tends to be confusion on what the role is and what a NP can do. The word “nurse” might lead them to believe that they are not getting the medical care they are seeking, and most expect to be treated by a physician.

Q: What are some common misconceptions patients have about seeing an APP?

A: When I meet a new patient, or even someone in the community, I find it very important to let patients know that they still have a choice while also educating them on the differences and similarities in the two roles. All NPs were registered nurses before receiving either a master's or doctoral degree. I was a registered nurse once, and still am one at heart, but I furthered my education and received an advanced degree to learn the practice and administration of medicine. So, when a patient questions a NP’s medical expertise, the conversation should begin with the education involved to become one. Nurse practitioners undergo 500+ hours of clinical training in a variety of clinical settings while working toward their advanced degree.

After graduation, NPs do not just run out and start working at any clinic or business. They are required to be certified by one of the national certification bodies, like physicians sitting for boards before beginning practice. NPs undergo peer review of their skills, and, like physicians, are required to continuously complete education and training to stay up to date on shifting trends in medicine. Like physicians, to continue practicing, NPs must maintain their certification by documenting direct patient care hours and continuing education hours, some of which must be credited to pharmacology training as new drugs are always becoming available. NPs hold many of the same responsibilities as physicians and must maintain a similar wealth of knowledge and training to continue practicing medicine.

Q: Can an APP treat the same kinds of issues a physician can? Prescribe medicine?

A: In any setting in which a NP is practicing, there is little that a physician can do that is outside of a NP’s scope of practice. NPs can perform minor procedures and assist physicians in major procedures, but are not permitted to perform invasive surgeries. Nurse practitioners are licensed to treat and diagnose patients, order testing, and write prescriptions. They can be a benefit to your healthcare needs by being available for consultation, evaluation, treatment and follow-up, seeing you for sick visits and well visits, and even being your family’s primary care provider.

Q: What else would you like readers to know about deciding to see an APP?

A: The US is facing a shortage of physicians — Nurse Practitioners allow for ease of access. Patients can often get an appointment to see a NP sooner than they can to see a doctor. We work collaboratively with physicians, and we are a part of a team with a goal of providing the best patient-centered care.*

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