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A Nurse Practitioner (NP) is an advanced practice registered nurse with graduate-level education and clinical training. NPs are licensed healthcare providers who can assess, diagnose, order and interpret tests, prescribe medications, and manage both acute and chronic health conditions.

 

In British Columbia and across Canada, NPs work as independent practitioners, often serving as a person’s primary care provider. 

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Nurse Practitioners can:

• Perform physical exams and order lab or diagnostic tests

• Diagnose and manage acute and chronic conditions

• Prescribe medications and renew prescriptions

• Order and interpret imaging

• Provide counselling and health education

• Refer to specialists or allied health providers

• Support health through integrative, holistic strategies

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While NPs and family physicians share many overlapping responsibilities, NP care often emphasizes:

• A holistic, relationship-based approach

• Prevention and lifestyle medicine

• Longer appointments that allow time for collaboration and education

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