In today’s fast-evolving healthcare landscape, patients need more than just expert treatment—they need accessible, compassionate, and personalized care. Enter advanced practice providers (APPs), such as physician assistants and nurse practitioners, who are bridging the gap between patients and doctors. These highly skilled professionals not only provide exceptional care but also play a pivotal role in making healthcare more efficient and patient-focused by ensuring that every patient’s needs are met with expertise and compassion.
What is an Advanced Practice Provider?
An Advanced Practice Provider (APP) is a healthcare professional trained and licensed to provide medical care in collaboration with, or under the supervision of, a physician. They can include Nurse Practitioners (NPs), Physician Assistants (PAs), and Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetists (CRNAs).
Backed by Years of Education and Training
Chances are, your preferred medical clinic has many Advanced Practice Providers on staff—Nurse Practitioners and Physician Assistants in particular. Premier Medical Group, for instance, has 36 APPs across the following specialties: Cardiology, Gastroenterology, Gynecology, Internal Medicine, and Urology.
APPs are often more readily available than physicians, which means you can get in to see them more quickly. If you’re concerned about the quality of care, you can rest assured that APPs undergo advanced training and education —so you’re in good hands.
In order to gain a license in the state of New York, Physician Assistants must have the following:*
- Be at least 21 years old at the time of application
- Be of good moral character
- Earn educational credentials including a bachelor’s or equivalent degree that meets the state education commission regulations
- Satisfactorily completed an approved training program
- Earn a passing score on a certification exam acceptable to the state education department
- Earn a passing score on a licensing examination
To become certified and registered by the New York State Education Department as an Nurse Practitioner, you must:**
- Be currently registered and licensed as a registered professional nurse (RN) in New York State
- Be of good moral character
- Meet education and experience requirements (i.e. clinical hours) acceptable to the education commission
- Apply for and earn a NP certification
While Nurse Practitioner certification is valid for life – unless revoked, annulled or suspended – NPs must renew their NP and RN registration certificates every 3 years in order to keep practicing in New York state. With over 3,600 hours of clinical experience, NPs can practice independently – without a written practice agreement with a collaborating physician – in the state of New York.***
What are APPs Responsible For?
Physician Assistants and Nurse Practitioners can both take medical histories, perform physical exams, diagnose and treat illnesses, order and interpret lab and diagnostic tests, and educate patients about their treatment plans. Nurse Practitioners can also prescribe medications and authorize other providers and licensed professionals, such as RNs and pharmacists, to administer certain treatments as set out by the state of New York.*** This means that the majority of your healthcare needs can be met by Advanced Practice Providers.
As the demand for care providers continues to grow, APPs help ensure healthcare remains accessible to the community without compromising quality of care. Schedule an appointment with an Advanced Practice Provider at Premier Medical Group and experience the timely care and trusted expertise we are proud to provide to the Hudson Valley.
*https://www.op.nysed.gov/professions/physician-assistants/license-requirements
**https://www.op.nysed.gov/professions/nurse-practitioners/certification-requirements