Role of an Advanced Provider

The role and value of advanced practice providers in the medical field are often misunderstood. Advanced practice providers (APP’s) play a critical part in providing quality health care. At KCH, we employ more than 50 APP’s who work with the physician(s), typically a medical doctor (MD) or doctor of osteopathy (DO), and the nursing staff. 

One of the myths about APP’s is that a physician supervises them. In fact, the relationship is more of a collaborative partnership in caring for the patient. “Each advanced provider is independently licensed, and we typically learn under a nursing model of care versus a medical model,” stated Kody Green, CNP. Both approaches are valid and important in health care. 

“In partnership with the patient and the physician, we provide holistic care with a strong focus on building trust-based relationships,” said Kody.

Another myth is that the advanced provider has a very limited menu of services they are able to provide for patients. In fact, these healthcare professionals provide physical exams, order and interpret diagnostic tests, prescribe medications, and develop treatment plans.

According to the American Association of Nurse Practitioners, nurse practitioners (NPs) provide a wide range of health care services, including the diagnosis and management of acute, chronic, and complex health problems; health promotion; disease prevention; health education; and counseling to individuals, families, groups and communities.  

Patients at KCH have provided comments about their advanced practice providers:

“Michele Yarman, CNP, is outstanding in her field. This provider listens and is very resourceful. Her professionalism is spot on. I appreciate her dedication to each patient.”

“Amber is one of the best and most thorough health care providers anyone could ask for.”

“Kody Green is very professional and kind and showed sincere interest in my health.”

“Sierra (Presley) is one of the most down to earth health care providers I have ever dealt with. I love her demeanor and bedside manner!”

Advanced Practice Provider titles include:

• ·         Certified Nurse Practitioners (CNP’s)
• ·         Physician’s Assistants (PA’s)
• ·         Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetists (CRNA’s)
• ·         Certified Nurse Midwives (CNM’s)
• ·         Clinical Nurse Specialists (CNS’s)
• ·         Advanced Clinical Practitioners (ACP’s)