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Blog Post

What is an APP?

Is it imperative that I see a physician for my GI problems or could I see the APP at my doctor’s office?

An APP is an advanced practice provider (nurse practitioners and physician assistants) and they are becoming commonplace in medical practices and hospitals all over the United States. There are a number of reasons for the “shift” in care including physician shortages as well as the increasing demands of electronic medical records and quality care initiatives which have greatly reduced the amount of clinical time for MDs while increasing a physician’s administrative and clerical responsibilities. Gateway Gastroenterology is happy to partner with talented and experienced GI advanced practice providers all of whom have previous experience as nurses in med/surgery, medical ICUs, and even in the GI lab. 

The advanced practice providers of Gateway Gastroenterology are nurse practitioners who work side by side with the physicians to provide seamless and efficient care to patients with IBS, GERD, liver disease, IBD, etc. While some practices allow APPs to function independently the physicians of Gateway Gastroenterology believe that a collaborative effort simplifies care, increases the opportunity for patient education, and improves the overall GI health of each of our patients. 

The physicians of Gateway Gastroenterology have a unique skill set and extensive training in endoscopic procedures and practice in a procedure-intensive specialty spending a significant portion of time in the endoscopy unit. At Gateway, the nurse practitioners are integral for the practice to provide timely office follow-up and evaluation. Call the office to visit with one of our highly trained and trusted NPs!