What are the Pros and Cons of using a NP for your PCP?

[wishNhopeNdreamN]

Hi, I am not a nurse yet. I start NS August 25 for an ASN degree.

My question however, is about using a NP instead of a family dr. My dr. just had a baby, and is moving to CA. There is a NP in the practice and I went to see her today for what I believe is gall bladder disease.

I really liked her but I have no experience with using a NP for my health care.

What I'd really like to know is what are the differences between a NP and a dr, besides the obvious (education) pertaining to care.

What if any are the pros and cons of seeing a NP for my medical needs?

I should add I'm 40. I don't have any major medical problems, aside from Hashimoto's thyroiditis, PCOS, High Cholesterol and now possibly gall bladder disease.

Any inisight would be very much appreciated.

Thanks!

[carachel2]

Well, for me it means my NP is very much in tune with national guidelines for chronic illnesses. Whereas my PCP thought it was just fine that my TSH level was approaching 5, she did not. The guidelines of a TSH @ 2 or below are very clear and she has said we will test, retest and raise dosages until I get there. Research supports that NPs are better at utilizing national guidelines than MDs and even sometimes PAs. (I'll find links if anyone wants the data).

Seeing my NP also means easier access. I can actually see her when I am ill vs. waiting 1 week to see my PCP. I get email communication of all my labs (although that is now system wide for all providers in this system).

[JDCitizen]

Well, for me it means my NP is very much in tune with national guidelines for chronic illnesses. Whereas my PCP thought it was just fine that my TSH level was approaching 5, she did not. The guidelines of a TSH @ 2 or below are very clear and she has said we will test, retest and raise dosages until I get there. Research supports that NPs are better at utilizing national guidelines than MDs and even sometimes PAs. (I'll find links if anyone wants the data).

Seeing my NP also means easier access. I can actually see her when I am ill vs. waiting 1 week to see my PCP. I get email communication of all my labs (although that is now system wide for all providers in this system).

I am curious how does that work? Just the lab results or more....