Pre-Conception visits with CRNP (Nurse Practitioner)?

pandas0328

Hey Everyone,

We are working on establishing a relationship with an OBGYN in our area with whom we are hoping to work throughout our pregnancy (when it finally happens).  I have been calling a few practices in the area, but I keep getting scheduled with Nurse Practitioners, as opposed to doctors.  

My main concern is not as much with the level of expertise (though that is a concern) but with the fact that we want our doctor to be the one to eventually deliver our baby and know everything about our situation.  My understanding is that nurse practitioners don't do that.  

Am I worrying too much?  I'd like to hear from anyone who has experience with this.  In case it helps, I will add that we have excellent benefits, so the cost of a CRNP vs Doctor isn't an issue.  (I have heard some women say they will choose a NP for this reason).  

 

Thanks ladies! 

BankerBSN

WHNP (Women's Health Nurse Practicioner) or CNM (Certified Nurse Midwives) (both NP and APNs) can work with physicians.  WHNPs do not deliver babies but CNM can.  In my expeirence, the NPs will see patients in the office and you would rotate through all the providers at the practice because you never know who will be on call to catch your baby. 

This would be a good question at your first visit to ask.  I do not think this is a big deal, especially for your consult visit to be seeing the NP.

LnR70707

Banker&BSN:

WHNP (Women's Health Nurse Practicioner) or CNM (Certified Nurse Midwives) (both NP and APNs) can work with physicians.  WHNPs do not deliver babies but CNM can.  In my expeirence, the NPs will see patients in the office and you would rotate through all the providers at the practice because you never know who will be on call to catch your baby. 

This would be a good question at your first visit to ask.  I do not think this is a big deal, especially for your consult visit to be seeing the NP.

This.  I saw a CNM for most of my annuals, then switched over to an RE, but once back at the OB, I saw my main doctor as well as several others in the practice for monthly appts.

LittleMommaBlueHen

Some NPs are actually CNMs (certified nurse midwives) and do deliver babies if the pregnancy is considered low risk.

monimu13

Banker&BSN:

WHNP (Women's Health Nurse Practicioner) or CNM (Certified Nurse Midwives) (both NP and APNs) can work with physicians.  WHNPs do not deliver babies but CNM can.  In my expeirence, the NPs will see patients in the office and you would rotate through all the providers at the practice because you never know who will be on call to catch your baby. 

This would be a good question at your first visit to ask.  I do not think this is a big deal, especially for your consult visit to be seeing the NP.

all of this...I did want to mention one thing also, You said that you were somewhat concerned about the amount of experience that your NP might have...did it ever occur to you that the NP may have more experience than your OB?  Keep in mind, I know nothing about your practice, but I, as a NP have more experience than most of the pediatricians that work at my hospital.  This response was in no way meant to be snarky, just wanted to give something to consider.