When a nurse practitioner is better than a doctor

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Choosing the best nurse practitioner

When it comes to choosing the right nurse practitioner for your needs, your best bet is a local nurse practitioner who specializes in treating your specific needs.

Find a local nurse practitioner

Check your locale for nurse practitioners. You can use sites like NP Finder or go through your local directory listing. Call to see what field of medicine the nurse practitioners specialize in and select one that matches your medical needs. In general, it's best to stick with a nuse practitioner who practices close to where you live so you don't have to commute long distances just to get medical care.

Make an appointment with the nurse practitioner

If your visit goes well and you're satisfied, then schedule a follow up visit. If you're not satisfied or if the nurse practitioner cannot provide adequate care for your illness, ask her to recommend other nurse practitioners in the area.

Nurse practitioners can provide excellent medical care, often sooner than a doctor, and they can save you money on health care. The next time you need to see a medical professional, consider the expertise of a nurse practitioner.

More ways to better your health care

• 15 Signs you should dump your doctor
• Is drive-thru health care right for your family?
• Benefits of complementary and alternative medicine