Our care model is changing to better serve you.
What is an Advanced Practice Provider?
You may have heard the term “Advanced Practice Provider” and have wondered what that actually meant. Advanced Practice Providers have Master’s Degrees or higher education and they are Board Certified by their respective organizations; either as Certified Nurse Practitioners or Physician Assistants. Additionally, they complete continuing education requirements and at Urology Specialists, they complete additional training in the specialty of Urology.
The History or APP’s at Urology Specialists
Advanced Practice Providers (APP’s) have been an important part of our team at Urology Specialists for more than 20 years! Hans Wagenaar, PA joined our team in 2000 and continues to serve patients yet today. As of 2022, we are proud to share that we have 10 APP’s working closely with our Physicians. Until just recently, some of our APP’s served patients primarily in the hospitals – assisting with inpatient care and surgery, while others served patients primarily in the clinic and outreach clinic settings. We have exciting news to share, however – we are adopting a new team focused model, to better serve you!
A Team Concept
Beginning in 2022, we have adopted a new model of care – with the goal of being able to serve our patients in a more holistic and efficient manner. We know that urology care is often time sensitive and truly impacts your quality of life. Each of our Urologists has partnered with an APP, so there are 9 teams in total; 18 providers who are working together to provide the best urologic care in the region. With our new model, we anticipate our patients will be able to see a qualified specialist sooner and you can be assured that our APP’s and Physicians will work closely together for you. Our Veteran, Hans Wagenaar, PA will continue to provide full time care in our clinic setting to help facilitate the emergency care our patients often need. In all, 19 providers will work together to provide specialized urologic care for men, women, and children across the 16 communities we serve.
True Teamwork
In addition to the 19 skilled Physicians and APP’s, who have been specially trained in Urology care, we have a team of amazing caregivers and colleagues who support our mission. We have a strong team of Registered Nurses, Licensed Practical Nurses, Medical Assistants, CT Technologists, Ultrasound Technicians, Phlebotomists, Receptionists, Schedulers, Coding/Billing Specialists, and Leaders throughout our organization who are also here to serve you. We truly strive to deliver the best patient experience possible.
What does this mean for you?
In order to better serve you, you may see a new face at your next visit. Our Physicians and APP’s will work closely to ensure you continue to receive the most efficient and safe care possible. There may be times when you will need to see a M.D. and other times when you will need to see an APP. Regardless of who you see, know that our team will work together and will communicate closely regarding your plan of care. As always, thank you for entrusting us. We are here for you.