DEAR DR. GOTT:
I have a question I believe many people, especially women, have. I was scheduled for my yearly physical by my physician recently but when I arrived at his office the receptionist told me he was way behind on his appointments and that I would be seeing his nurse practitioner.

I went into her office where she did the physical, read my lab reports and made a few suggestions regarding my health. I liked her very much. She seemed thorough and took time with me. I never saw the doctor.

I would choose to continue with the nurse practitioner as my regular health care person but don’t know if this is appropriate and would like your opinion. I want to know how educated these individuals are and if they are qualified to diagnose and prescribe medications and remedies.

DEAR READER:
A nurse practitioner (NP, APN or APRN) is a [Read more...]