October 21st marks the first day of our Advanced Practice Provider (APP) Week at Atrium Health.
But what exactly is an APP and why are they so important? APPs have master’s degrees or higher. They are an important part of the patient care team and work at hospitals, outpatient centers, doctor’s offices, emergency rooms and urgent care centers, and in many different specialties. APPs can prescribe medications and order tests for all procedures. They are trusted medical professionals who work hand-in-hand with physicians to create a seamless environment of care. APPs practice within their defined scopes of practice, and they are trained and competent to provide specific services proficiently, at high standards. APPs do more than just deliver care; they are fundamental to medical education, mentoring, clinical and basic science research, and they are important advocates for many different patient populations.
We’re proud to have over 1,500 APPs at Atrium Health who directly elevate the quality of care in our system each and every day by meeting the growing demands and needs of our patients. From physician assistants to nurse practitioners and certified nurse midwives, to clinical nurse specialists and certified registered nurse anesthetists – individuals who serve patients as a part of the five distinguished APP professions are a valued part of the healthcare team and integral to the health, hope and healing for all within our surrounding communities. This inaugural event is so special because it combines five nationally recognized weeks of each individual APP profession into one magnificent celebration.
The lives of thousands of patients and their families are touched annually by our APPs commitment to our vision of being the first and best choice for care. Thank you to our APPs for all that you do to give our patients the very best care.
Watch our slideshow below to see a handful of special messages and make sure to follow Atrium Health’s Facebook and Twitter channels for some fun shout outs and recognitions of the APPs we know and work with every day.
And last but not least, make sure to reach out to your Advanced Practice Providers to express your gratitude during this special week!
