What is an advanced practice provider?
An advanced practice provider or APP is a healthcare provider that has an advanced degree in patient care such as a nurse practitioner (NP) or physician’s assistant (PA). These providers have a master’s degree or higher in their field of specialty. Their education also includes a bachelor’s degree in science, as well as hundreds of clinical hours in the patient care setting prior to graduation. Upon graduation of an accredited program national board certification is required to practice.
We understand that your health and well-being are of utmost importance, which is why we have carefully integrated Advanced Practice Providers (APPs) into our practice. Our APPs are here to offer you expert care and ensure that you receive the attention you need in a timely manner. Whether you are seeking treatment for a specific condition or require surgical intervention, our team of dedicated APPs and surgeons work together to provide comprehensive care.
When you visit our office, our friendly and knowledgeable staff will guide you through the process. They will ask you questions about your condition to ensure that you receive the most appropriate care. Our APPs are trained to handle a wide range of diagnoses within our patient population, allowing them to address your needs effectively. If it is determined that an appointment with an APP is suitable for your condition, they will be able to provide you with specialized care that aligns with your requirements.
The training our APPs undergo is extensive and designed to equip them with the necessary skills to deliver exceptional care. After completing their advanced degrees and obtaining board certification, our APPs enter a mentorship program with our experienced surgeons. This hands-on training involves working in the clinical setting, where they learn valuable assessment techniques, interpret radiographs, and develop effective treatment plans. Additionally, they collaborate closely with our certified hand therapists to ensure a comprehensive approach to your care. To stay current with the latest advancements in hand and microsurgery, our APPs actively participate in monthly journal clubs where they discuss emerging trends and medical breakthroughs.
In surgical settings, our APPs play a vital role in supporting our surgeons during procedures. They are well-versed in various tasks, including administering digital blocks to numb fingers, providing assistance during surgeries, suturing wounds, and applying splints and bandages. This level of support allows our surgeons to focus on the intricate details of the procedure while our APPs ensure a smooth surgical experience. Additionally, our APPs undergo further training and certification as registered nurse first assistants (RNFAs), adding to their expertise in the operating room.
At Hand and Microsurgery Associates, we value the contributions of our APPs and recognize their role in delivering exceptional care to our patients. We are dedicated to providing you with specialized medical attention, ensuring that your needs are met with the highest level of expertise and compassion. Whether you interact with an APP during your visit or require the intervention of our skilled surgeons, we are committed to your well-being and strive to achieve the best possible outcomes in hand and microsurgery.