Working in a team of primary health-care providers: A nurse practitioner’s experience

Written by Layal Alaeddine 

As a nurse practitioner at London Health Sciences Centre’s Byron Family Medical Centre, I’ve had the opportunity to impact the care of patients both directly and indirectly. In this article I will highlight the role of nurse practitioners in our office and the exciting opportunities I’ve had. 

Who are Nurse practitioners?  

Nurse Practitioners (NPs) are registered nurses with advanced university education and experience. We possess the autonomy to:  

• independently diagnose and communicate diagnoses,   
• treat illnesses,   
• order/interpret laboratory and diagnostic imaging tests,   
• prescribe medications,   
• make referrals, and   
• perform various medical procedures.  

We are health-care professionals who adopt a holistic approach, addressing both physical and mental health needs. We gather comprehensive medical histories, focus on the impact of illnesses on individuals and their families, recommend lifestyle changes, health promotion and disease prevention, as well as manage both chronic and episodic/acute conditions.  

To become a NP, it may take a minimum of eight years of academic training and clinical experience. NPs start out as registered nurses who then take graduate courses and training.   

Working both independently and in collaboration with other health-care professionals, we provide health-care services to patients of all ages and across the health spectrum. At LHSC there are currently over 100 NPs working in inpatient and outpatient settings. NPs play a key role in teaching and mentoring nursing students, nurse practitioner students, medical students, and residents at LHSC.  

Caring for patients at Byron Family Medical Centre  

At the Byron Family Medical Centre (BFMC), I work alongside one other NP. We see patients of all ages for both acute and chronic illnesses. Our center cares for approximately 8000 patients. At BFMC there is a 25-person health-care team which includes family physicians, nurses, nurse practitioners, social workers, a dietitian, an occupational therapist, a pharmacist, as well as several administrative staff.   

My position at BFMC is outstanding. It goes beyond providing medical expertise; I am also able to foster great patient-provider relationships. Working alongside a fantastic team of health-care professionals significantly enhances the manageability and productivity of my day. 

Referrals to the NPs come from other team members for various services, including chronic disease management, cognitive assessments, smoking cessation, ankle-brachial index, and more. 

Research and growth opportunities  

An opportunity exists for NPs at LHSC in general to participate or lead research projects. We are also encouraged to focus on quality improvement, connect with community partners and support strategic initiatives all to improve the quality of care that is provided to patients.  

Both BFMC and LHSC offer support for me to dedicate my attention not only to clinical responsibilities but also to non-clinical activities. This allocated time enables me to concentrate on ongoing education, as well as explore potential research and projects related to the clinic. 

I’ve had the opportunity to impact the way our Family Medicine residents learn about chronic disease management with the creation of a Mini-Diabetes Clinic. This clinic offers residents the chance to collaborate with an interdisciplinary team, learning effective ways to assist patients at different stages of their disease, encompassing diagnosis, assessment, and optimization of treatment plans. This clinic was created shortly after I began working at BFMC to help residents further develop their knowledge of diabetes care management training at the center.  

To explore or apply for a nurse practitioner position at LHSC, including the Byron Family Medical Centre, visit the Careers page.