How APPs Benefit Patients at HCA
- Posted on: Mar 6 2023
Have you ever called to make an appointment at HCA and been offered the opportunity to see an advanced practice provider (APP) instead of a physician? At first, you may have felt like you would only like to be seen by a doctor. However, what you may not realize is that APPs are a vital part of our healthcare ecosystem, and seeing an APP can actually benefit you as a patient.
At HCA, we are proud to work with the finest cardiology APPs that provide excellent care to our patients in collaboration with our physicians. Here’s what you need to know about working with an APP.
What Is an Advanced Practice Provider (APP)?
The abbreviation “APP” represents two kinds of healthcare clinicians, physician assistants (PAs) and nurse practitioners (NPs). Each type of advanced practice provider has experience in the healthcare field before attending a Master’s or Doctorate level program to earn their terminal professional degree. During their training, they receive extensive medical education and hands-on experience with patients. After graduating, they begin working with their physician colleagues to help diagnose and manage health conditions, and many subspecialize as well.
What Does an APP Do?
When you’re seen by a PA or an NP, they take care of you as a patient in the same way that a doctor does, taking into account your health history, your clinical picture, and your various treatment needs. An APP can provide the same type of care and excellent management as a physician, and they work directly with their physician colleagues to ensure that all your needs as a patient are met. Our APPs are experts at educating you on your condition and treatment plan, and they are available to explain conditions in-depth and answer any questions you may have. You can think of an APP as an extension of our exceptional physician team.
How Can an APP Help?
As a patient, you may choose to see an APP because you would like to be seen sooner, or because you would like the ability to be even closer to your treatment team. Often, an APP may have a more accommodating schedule, and they may be even more accessible and responsive to your needs. Rest assured that all care provided by our APPs is of the highest quality and is carried out in close coordination with our cardiologists. Our specialized APPs work together with our cardiologists to make sure your needs are met in a timely and evidence-based manner.
How to Learn More About APPs
Hunterdon Cardiovascular Associates is committed to providing the highest quality of care in a patient-centered environment. Our offices are conveniently located in Flemington, Clinton, and Bridgewater. We have subspecialty locations available, and our trusted advanced practice providers help ensure that our patients get care tailored to their needs when they need it.
To learn more, or to make an appointment, please contact us today.
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