Comprehensive. Convenient. Compassionate.
A Division of Pomona Valley Hospital Medical Center
National Nurse Practitioners Week is held each year from November 7 to 13 to celebrate all the exceptional men and women who use their unique combination of medical and nursing skills to diagnose and treat everything from acute to chronic conditions and everything in between.
The first nurse practitioners’ program was founded in 1965 and began as a certificate program for pediatrics. Today, nurse practitioners are highly educated, skilled medical professionals performing many of the same job duties as physicians in specialties such as:
Nurse practitioners are licensed to provide primary and specialty healthcare to patients across the lifespan including managing health care, performing minor procedures, prescribing medications, diagnosing and treating illnesses and injuries, providing specialist referrals, and ordering tests.
According to a recent report published by the Association of American Medical Colleges, the United States is facing a primary care physician shortage. Nurse practitioners serve a vital role in helping to not only address this shortage but also help lower healthcare costs and improve patient satisfaction. Many have also advocated for policy changes that would improve access to healthcare, particularly for children, low-income individuals, and other marginalized groups.
Both nurse practitioners and physicians provide invaluable care, but there are a few notable differences you should consider before scheduling an appointment. Many people are used to requesting a “doctor” when scheduling an appointment, but nurse practitioners are equally skilled and knowledgeable in their field. Here are a few things to consider the next time you need to schedule a medical appointment. Nurse practitioners:
This week we’re celebrating our PVHC nurse practitioners and the immense value they bring to our centers. Over the last 19 months, the COVID-19 pandemic challenged their strength, courage, and resolve in ways no one could have ever anticipated, yet they continue to rise to the occasion—day after day—and provide exemplary care to people in need.
On behalf of our Premier Family Medicine physicians, medical staff, and administration, we want to thank each one of our nurse practitioners for their unwavering compassionate care and service.
Join Pomona Valley Health Centers in celebrating our nurse practitioners for their hard work and dedication to patient-centered care throughout the year. Call 909-378-9143 to schedule an appointment today.
