This week, JPS Health Network is celebrating Advanced Practice Provider (APP) Week, recognizing the highly trained clinicians who play an important role on the care team and help patients connect to the care they need.
Patients may see a variety of letters after a clinician's name. Those credentials reflect specialized education, training, and expertise. Knowing what those letters mean can help patients better understand the roles and qualifications of the healthcare professionals who make up their care team.
These providers are known as Advanced Practice Providers, or APPs. They have advanced clinical training that allows them to provide many services to patients, including diagnosing illnesses, developing treatment plans, ordering tests, prescribing medications, providing anesthesia, supporting pregnancy and childbirth, and more. APPs work in partnership with physicians and other healthcare professionals to meet patients' healthcare needs.
By expanding access to qualified healthcare professionals, APPs help patients receive the care they need more quickly, without compromising quality.
“I think access is the key word. I think we open access immensely for our community and give patients more opportunities to get the care they need, when they need it” said Erica Vance, APRN, CPNP/PC, Acclaim Health APP Director at JPS.
Who Are APPs?
APP is a term that includes several types of healthcare clinicians:
- Nurse Practitioners (NPs)
Diagnose illnesses, prescribe medications, and manage patient care. - Physician Assistants (PAs)
Evaluate patients, develop treatment plans, and provide medical care. - Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetists (CRNAs)
Administer anesthesia and monitor patients during procedures. - Clinical Nurse Specialists (CNSs)
Improve patient outcomes through advanced clinical expertise and care coordination. - Certified Nurse Midwives (CNMs)
Provide pregnancy, childbirth, postpartum, and women's health care.
Why Does This Matter for Patients?
For patients, APPs can provide continuity of care and serve as a trusted partner in managing their health. By building long-term relationships with patients, they can better understand a person's health history, needs, and goals.
“Patients can feel confident coming to an APP for their care,” said Rhonda Henderson, APP Director, APRN, FNP-C at JPS. “We’re here to listen, understand your needs, and work alongside you to help you reach your health goals.”
Need to connect to care? Visit https://jpshealthnet.org/locations.