When you fall sick or need wellness care, your first point of contact is a primary care provider. You might not realize it, but your doctor is not the only one who can attend to all healthcare problems you may be having. A nurse practitioner is just as qualified as your doctor to diagnose, treat, and prescribe medications. Whether you are planning a sick visit or a wellness visit, David N Peterson APRN, ND from PharmXhealthOne, will be there to cater to your needs. Here are some interesting facts about nurse practitioners you probably did not know:

1. The demand for primary care has surpassed the number of primary care physicians

Before the COVID-19 pandemic, primary care providers were stationed in various facilities to provide healthcare services to the existing population. During the pandemic, demand for primary care surpassed the number of doctors. The most exciting part is that scientists project that the pandemic may drive doctors into early retirement. As a result, nurses and clinical officers step in to cater to the rise in cases of the Corona Virus.

2. A nurse practitioner can provide counseling services

When you have a mental issue or a physical condition, the first thing you would want is to get treatment. All you want is to feel better. However, that is not the only service you can get from a nurse. Nurses also have background training in counseling. They can advise you on how to care for yourself and how to prevent yourself from becoming sick again. If your condition makes you feel stressed, a nurse can teach you how to cope with it.

3. Nurses are qualified to diagnose and treat acute and chronic conditions

Over the years, patients have always thought that nurses only care for them after seeing their doctor. The first thing they think of when they see a nurse is someone who acts under the orders of a primary care physician. The truth is nurses are also skilled and experienced, just like doctors, to diagnose and treat acute and chronic conditions. The next time you fall ill and need treatment, trust your nurse to resolve your problem.

4. Nurses can also manage overall care

Due to the increase in demand for nursing services, many facilities put nurses in charge of overall care. Nurses undergo training in patient education, research, and policy advocacy. Family nurse practitioners, in particular, can steer patient education programs, take part in medical research and participate in decision-making as far as healthcare policy matters are concerned.

A family nurse can help with whatever health issue you may be having

While healthcare recognizes doctors as the most significant providers, nurses are equally important. When you are trying to reach out to your doctor and fail to secure an appointment with them, a nurse can still help with whatever health problem you may be having. To understand the roles of nurse practitioners, call your doctor directly to book you an appointment.

Paul Petersen