Absolutely! Nurse Practitioners can serve as your Primary Care Providers (PCPs). In Maryland, Certified Registered Nurse Practitioners (CRNPs) are authorized to practice independently without physician oversight. This recognition aligns with research indicating that CRNPs deliver care that is equal to or superior to that provided by physicians in primary care settings. 

As CRNP’s, we are skilled in assessing, evaluating, and diagnosing disease processes, prescribing medications when indicated, interpreting laboratory results and other tests, and performing outpatient procedures within the scope of our training. For complex cases requiring a specialist, we make referrals to specialists and therapies appropriately for further management.

Medicare and most Medicare Advantage Plans, Tricare, Blue Cross/Blue Shield, Aetna, United Healthcare, Cigna. 

No Medicaid plans are accepted.

Comprehensive Care: NPs are trained to provide comprehensive care that encompasses physical, mental, and emotional health and wellbeing. They can address a wide range of health concerns and coordinate care across different specialties if needed. 

Focus on Prevention: NPs emphasize preventive care and health advocacy. They empower patients to develop strategies for maintaining good health and preventing illnesses through the lifespan with healthy lifestyle modifications, routine screenings, and health promotion.

Holistic Approach: NPs take a holistic approach to healthcare, considering not just the physical symptoms but also the social, emotional, environmental, and socioeconomic factors that can impact health. This approach often leads to more personalized and effective care.

Accessibility: NPs typically offer more accessible care, with shorter wait times for appointments and longer consultation times compared to some other healthcare providers. This allows for better communication, thorough assessments, and a more comprehensive approach.

Patient Education: NPs prioritize patient education, empowering patients to understand their health conditions, treatment options, and self-care strategies. This helps patients make informed decisions and take an active role in managing their health.

Collaborative Care: NPs often collaborate with other healthcare professionals, such as physicians, specialists, therapists, and pharmacists, to ensure comprehensive and coordinated care for their patients.

Cost-Effective: NPs provide high-quality care at a lower cost compared to some other healthcare providers. They can help reduce healthcare expenses by focusing on preventive measures and avoiding unnecessary tests or treatments. Overall, choosing a Nurse Practitioner as your primary care provider can lead to a more personalized, accessible, and holistic healthcare experience, promoting better health outcomes and patient satisfaction.

Education and Training: 

NPs: Typically hold a Master's or Doctorate degree in nursing (MSN or DNP). They undergo advanced nursing education and clinical training, focusing on a holistic approach to patient care, health promotion, disease prevention, and management of acute and chronic conditions.

Physicians: Complete medical school (MD or DO degree) followed by residency training in a specific specialty. They are trained in diagnosing and treating medical conditions, performing procedures, and managing complex medical cases.

Scope of Practice:

NPs: NPs are licensed healthcare providers who can diagnose, treat, and manage acute and chronic conditions. They can order and interpret diagnostic tests, prescribe medications (depending on state regulations), provide health counseling, and coordinate patient care.

Physicians: Physicians have a broader scope of practice and can perform surgeries, invasive procedures, and advanced medical interventions. They are often primary care providers or specialists who manage complex medical cases.

Approach to Care:

NPs: NPs typically emphasize patient-centered care, health promotion, and disease prevention. They often focus on building therapeutic relationships with patients and involving them in decision-making about their health.

Physicians: Physicians may have a more disease-focused approach, especially in specialized fields, although may also practice patient-centered care.

Time and Attention:

NPs typically spend more time with patients during appointments, allowing for thorough assessments, discussions about health concerns, and education on self-care strategies to promote optimal wellness and meet health goals.

Physicians may have shorter appointment times due to high patient volumes, although this can vary depending on the practice setting and physician's style.