Health care

When medical care is needed, most people say they’re “going to the doctor.” However, you may see a nurse practitioner or physician assistant rather than a doctor of medicine or a doctor of osteopathic medicine. These skilled health care team members are called advanced practice providers, and they are an incredibly valuable part of your care journey.

Highly trained to care for patients under the supervision of a physician, they provide the highest level of care in today’s medical setting. Their qualifications include a master’s degree or higher, as well as clinical training, state licensure and board certification. Their knowledge qualifies them to perform exams, order diagnostic tests, create treatment and prevention plans, prescribe medication, write referrals and provide many of the services that a physician would across all primary and specialty care needs.

And, like doctors, advanced practice providers must stay up to date on the most advanced developments in their medical specialties — from primary care, which includes family medicine and internal medicine, to specialty practices such as gastroenterology, orthopedics, women’s health and more.

As more and more people seek care, in addition to the existing patient population, advanced practice providers are critical to bridging the gap between patients and the efficient, high-quality care they need. Patients of all ages already rely on the attentive expertise and ongoing access to care from knowledgeable, credentialed advanced practice providers. So, the next time you need medical assistance, expand your health care provider panel and schedule an appointment with an advanced practice provider.

Dr. Thomas Kayrouz, chief clinical operations officer with Riverside Health System, Newport News