Understanding Your Care
What It Means to Receive Care From a Nurse Practitioner
At Kura Health, primary care is provided by nurse practitioners. We believe patients should clearly understand who is caring for them, what training that clinician has, and how decisions are made when additional care is needed.
What Is a Nurse Practitioner?
A nurse practitioner is an advanced practice registered nurse educated and trained to provide healthcare across the lifespan. Nurse practitioners evaluate symptoms, diagnose and manage many acute and chronic conditions, order and interpret diagnostic testing, prescribe medications when appropriate, provide preventive care, and coordinate care with other healthcare professionals.
Nurse practitioners are licensed healthcare professionals trained to evaluate patients, diagnose and manage health conditions, order and interpret testing, prescribe medications when appropriate, and provide ongoing primary care within their scope of practice.
What Type of Care Can I Receive?
Nurse Practitioners and Physicians
Nurse practitioners and physicians are different types of healthcare professionals. At Kura Health, we do not blur that distinction. Our providers are nurse practitioners, not physicians. Their role is to provide primary care within their training, certification, licensure, and clinical experience.
Many primary care needs can be evaluated and managed in the primary care setting. When a concern requires physician input, specialist evaluation, urgent care, emergency care, or a higher level of testing or treatment, Kura Health will help guide the next step.
Patient Choice
Patients are always welcome to ask questions about their diagnosis, treatment plan, testing options, referrals, or whether physician or specialist involvement may be appropriate. Patients may also seek physician involvement independently at any time.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a nurse practitioner the same as a doctor?
No. A nurse practitioner is not a physician. Nurse practitioners are advanced practice registered nurses who provide healthcare within their training, certification, licensure, and clinical experience. Kura Health uses clear credentialing so patients understand who is providing their care.
Can a nurse practitioner provide primary care?
Yes. Nurse practitioners are trained to provide many primary care services, including evaluation, diagnosis, treatment, prevention, chronic disease management, medication management, testing, and referrals within their scope of practice.
What if I need a physician or specialist?
If your condition requires care beyond what should be managed in primary care, Kura Health will discuss next steps and help coordinate referral, consultation, urgent care, or emergency evaluation when appropriate.
Can I ask for physician involvement?
Yes. You are welcome to ask questions or request discussion of physician or specialist involvement at any point in your care. Kura Health will help you understand appropriate options based on your needs, insurance, and local availability.
Is Kura Health an emergency clinic?
No. Kura Health is a primary care practice. If you are experiencing a medical emergency, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency department.
What is the difference between a nurse practitioner and a physician?
Nurse practitioners and physicians are different types of healthcare professionals with different training pathways. Nurse practitioners are advanced practice registered nurses who provide healthcare within their training, certification, licensure, and clinical experience.