Understanding the Role of Advanced Practice Providers

At Lurie Children’s, Advanced Practice Providers (APPs)—including Advanced Practice Registered Nurses (APRNs) and Physician Assistants (PAs)—may treat families during appointments, collaborating with physicians and other healthcare professionals to provide expert care. 

What is the role of an APP?

APPs provide comprehensive care for children facing a wide range of medical conditions, from minor infections to post-surgical recovery. Their responsibilities may include:  

• Diagnosing conditions  
• Developing treatment plans
• Interpreting diagnostic tests  
• Prescribing medications
• Coordinating care with other specialists
• Conducting research
• Publishing studies

Overall, they play a critical role in improving access to care, managing conditions, and enhancing patient outcomes at Lurie Children’s.  

Types of Advanced Practice Providers 

APPs undergo extensive training to prepare for their roles. They hold advanced degrees, typically master’s or doctoral degrees, and hold a certification through an accredited certifying board.  

At Lurie Children’s, there are three primary types of advanced practice provider roles: 

• Nurse Practitioners (NPs): These professionals serve as primary and specialty care providers, diagnosing and treating various illnesses. NPs hold advanced degrees, typically a master’s or doctorate in nursing, and have specialized education and clinical training beyond that of a registered nurse.  
• Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetists (CRNAs): Specializing in anesthesia and sedation, CRNAs typically work in operating rooms alongside surgeons and nurses. CRNAs hold master’s or doctoral degree in nurse anesthesia from an accredited program.  
• Physician Assistants (PAs): PAs are medical professionals trained similarly to doctors, allowing them to diagnose, treat, and prescribe medications in various specialties.  

How do APPs differ from doctors? 

While APPs and doctors share many responsibilities, their training paths differ. APPs typically complete 2-4 years of post-bachelor’s education, while doctors undergo an additional four years of medical school plus residency training.
 
Like physicians, APPs must be board-certified in their specialty and complete continuing education to maintain their licensure. 

Specialized Training in Pediatrics 

Many APPs at Lurie Children’s receive specialized training in pediatrics through their academic programs and clinical rotations. When joining Lurie Children’s, APPs undergo additional on-the-job training, including competency assessments, mentoring by experienced providers, and specialized orientation programs. 

Lurie Children’s has over 400 APPs across all specialty areas. Some divisions, such as Allergy, Dermatology, Endocrinology, Orthopedic Surgery/Sports Medicine, Neurology and Urology, even have independent clinics run by APPs. 

Why might a patient see an APP instead of a doctor?

At Lurie Children’s, APPs are integral to the team-based care model, often serving as the first and primary point of contact for patients. Depending on the nature of the visit, a child may see an APP that specializes in their condition. 
 
APPs are fully equipped to diagnose, prescribe treatments, order tests, and educate families about care plans. 

The Importance of APPs in Pediatric Healthcare 

Ensuring timely and effective care is a top priority at Lurie Children’s, and APPs play a vital role in this mission. They help improve patient access to care and serve as experts in specific medical conditions. Whether they are leading patient care or working alongside physicians, APPs enhance the overall healthcare experience. 

The Center for Advanced Practice Leadership

APPs at Lurie Children’s collaborate closely with physicians and other healthcare professionals, operating as credentialed medical staff members. To support their continued growth, Lurie Children’s has established The Center for Advanced Practice Leadership. This initiative fosters professional development, ensuring that APPs continue to provide the highest quality care to the patients they serve. 

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