Choosing a Provider
Finding an OB/GYN health care provider to share your most intimate health issues is a critical step towards your ongoing wellness. Our goal at the WCNC is to assure that every provider interaction leaves you feeling comfortable and confident in the quality care you received. Research has shown that patients who have good relationships with their health care providers tend to be more satisfied with their care and consequently experience better health results. A review of the provider bios available on this website may help assure you are able to select a provider whose philosophy will be compatible with your own. In addition, it can be very helpful to ask your friends, families, co-workers and other healthcare providers for recommendations.
Once you select a provider they should:
- Have the education, knowledge, and skills to help you make informed decisions about your health.
- Increase your level of knowledge about your own body.
- Have the time to truly listen to your health concerns without making you feel pressured or rushed.
- Respect your lifestyle, cultural beliefs and preferences.
OB/GYN Doctors (MD) All have completed four years of medical school and a four-year residency program in area the of obstetric and gynecological care; to be trained as surgical-medical doctors. MDs select specialties in which to practice and become experts in the knowledge in these areas. They are trained to manage high-risk medical situations, high-risk pregnancies and can perform surgeries.
Certified Nurse Midwives (CNM) Are registered nurses who have earned their master’s degrees in midwifery, under the American College of Nurse-Midwives (ACNM). CNMs provide primary health care to women throughout their lifetimes; normal gynecological services, contraceptive counseling, medication prescription and management, menopausal care and care during pregnancy and childbirth. Midwives approach women’s health care based on evidence and clinical expertise. To learn more about midwifery care please visit the ACNM and read, “Our Moment of Truth: A New Understanding of Midwifery Care.”
Nurse Practitioners (NP) Are registered nurses, who are advanced academically; acquiring a master’s or doctoral degree and passing a national exam, which is specific to their population of focus, such as Obstetrics and Gynecology. NPs at the WCNC are trained in many aspects of both OB/GYN care, including wellness exams, prevention, education, disease management and they are able to prescribe medications.
Physician Assistants (PA) Earn master’s degrees, take national certification exams and have a medical model focus. PAs always practice with the supervision of a physician and often assist with medical procedures and surgeries. PAs at the WCNC are trained in many aspects of both OB/GYN care, including wellness exams, prevention, education and disease management.
Registered Nurses (RN) A registered nurse is one who has graduated from an accredited nursing education program and has passed a state board examination. At the WCNC, RN’s provide care and education for women from puberty to menopause; anything related to their reproductive system. At the core of all nursing practice is the delivery of holistic, patient-focused care.
Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN) – A Licensed Practical Nurse has completed an accredited program and passed a national licensure exam. LPNs keep detailed records of patients’ health, explain procedures and listen to patients’ concerns, and administer overall nursing care at the WCNC.
Medical Assistants (MA) Are specialized clinical technicians who assist and work under the direction of the MDs and CNMs. . They provide patient education, exam preparation, taking vitals and recording medical history. MAs are an integral part of the WCNC team.
At the WCNC all of the MDs, CNMs, NPs, PAs are licensed and highly regulated health care providers and their services are covered by health insurances.
