Find an in-network doctor from over 1,000 insurance plans

Add your insurance to see in-network doctors
insurance link for 300
insurance link for 307
insurance link for 323
insurance link for 356
insurance link for 324
See all (1,000+)
66 verified Nurse Practitioners in Birmingham, AL
Zocdoc verifies all providers before they can appear in Zocdoc search results. Every provider that appears in search is open to new patients.
All providers
Availability last updated 06/14/2026
Availability last updated 06/14/2026
Primary Care Doctor (Virtual)
Anderson, AL
Accepts BlueCross BlueShield + 22 more
Accepting new patients · 25+ years of experience · Offers video visits ·
Read bio
Dr. Burruss attended the Medical College of Virginia, completing his medical degree in 1983. He enjoys travel, sports and lives by the motto: ‘Health is what enables us to live life to the fullest!”Click to read more
Next available: today
Family Physician (Virtual)
Anderson, AL
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 15 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
Next available: today
Family Physician (Virtual)
Anderson, AL
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield + 12 more
Accepting new patients · 25+ years of experience · Offers video visits ·
Next available: today
Family Physician (Virtual)
Anderson, AL
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 14 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
Next available: today
Internist (Virtual)
5.00
·1 review
Anderson, AL
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 14 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended
Next available: today
Family Physician (Virtual)
1.00
·3 reviews
Well i never got to do any appointment at all. You all dont take Medicaid. So you all are for rich. God Don't Sleep. - May 9, 2026 by Dorothy M.Click to read more
Anderson, AL
Accepts BlueCross BlueShield + 10 more
Accepting new patients · 24 years of experience · Offers video visits ·
Next available: today
Family Physician (Virtual)
3.67
·3 reviews
I was no call no showedClick to read more
Anderson, AL
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 11 more
Accepting new patients · 25+ years of experience · Offers video visits ·
Next available: today
Pediatrician (Virtual)
5.00
·1 review
Anderson, AL
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 37 more
Accepting new patients · 25+ years of experience · Offers video visits · Highly recommended ·
Read bio
Dr. Allan Marks graduated from the University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry in 1980 and completed residency at Stanford University Medical Center. When he’s not working, he enjoys playing tennis, hiking, and spending time with his wife and their three children.Click to read more
Next available: today
Family Physician (Virtual)
3.67
·3 reviews
Anderson, AL
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 20 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Excellent wait timeExpertise in acute skin infection + 7 more
Next available: tomorrow
Internist (Virtual)
4.63
·1756 reviews
He is to the point and quick with fulfilling prescriptions - Oct 28, 2025 by Cheryl B.Click to read more
Anderson, AL
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 74 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Excellent wait time · Expertise in pneumonia and respiratory infections + 4 more ·
Read bio
Dr. Ike Ogbu is a highly regarded Board Certified Internal Medicine physician with extensive expertise in managing both acute and chronic medical conditions. He earned his Doctor of Medicine degree from St. George's University School of Medicine and completed his residency in Internal Medicine at Mo...Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Internist (Virtual)
1.00
·2 reviews
This was a poor experience. Provider was completely unaware of the appointment. I was not contacted by them in any way. I reached out to them directly and they completely dropped the ball. Then they suddenly lied and said they couldn’t hear me, and attempted to get me to sign up for a completely dif...Click to read more
Anderson, AL
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 28 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
Read bio
Dr. Allison Lovell completed her residency at Yale in 1988 and then obtained her Board Certification in Internal Medicine. Dr. Lovell has worked with many different people from all walks of life and cares for everyone with compassion and concern.Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Internist (Virtual)
4.52
·1703 reviews
The dr was very kind and knowledgeable about my worsening symptom’s. - Jul 13, 2024 by Tamra F.Click to read more
anderson, AL
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 58 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Excellent wait time ·
Read bio
Please note: After booking, our team may reach out to help you prepare for your visit and verify insurance. Coverage varies by plan, and patients are responsible for applicable costs. Dr. Ngwudike DOES NOT prescribe controlled substances via telemedicine. Missed appointments may incur a fee. Dr. Ch...Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Internist (Virtual)
Anderson, AL
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 30 more
Accepting new patients · 25+ years of experience · Offers video visits · Expertise in chronic diabetes + 9 more
Next available: tomorrow
Internist (Virtual)
Anderson, AL
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 13 more
Accepting new patients · 25+ years of experience · Offers video visits · Expertise in chronic kidney disease + 6 more
Next available: tomorrow
Family Physician (Virtual)
Anderson, AL
Accepts BlueCross BlueShield + 10 more
Accepting new patients · 25+ years of experience · Offers video visits ·
Next available: tomorrow
Primary Care Doctor (Virtual)
5.00
·2 reviews
Anderson, AL
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 23 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended
Next available: tomorrow
Internist (Virtual)
Anderson, AL
Accepts BlueCross BlueShield + 10 more
Accepting new patients · 25+ years of experience · Offers video visits ·
Next available: Thu, Jun 18
Family Physician (Virtual)
Tuskegee, AL
Accepting new patients · 25+ years of experience · Offers video visits ·
Read bio
Greetings, this is Dr. Darnita Hill, and I have been practicing family medicine for over 25 years. I am passionate about assisting my patients in their healing journey and offer treatments deemed most effective and safe�ones they are comfortable with. As an osteopathic physician, I incline toward a ...Click to read more
Family Physician (Virtual)
Anderson, AL
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 16 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
Primary Care Doctor (Virtual)
Anderson, AL
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 14 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
Family Physician (Virtual)
Anderson, AL
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield + 18 more
Accepting new patients · 24 years of experience · Offers video visits ·
Nurse Practitioner (Gastroenterology) (Virtual)
4.94
·32 reviews
Anderson, AL
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 8 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time ·
Read bio
Christie Morrison is a nurse practitioner who brings over a decade of gastroenterology-specific experience to Oshi Health. At Oshi, she cares for GI patients virtually and manages a team of GI providers. She also works part-time at the Texas Digestive Disease Center in San Antonio, treating patients...Click to read more
Family Physician (Virtual)
Anderson, AL
Accepts BlueCross BlueShield + 2 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Expertise in chronic high blood pressure
Family Physician (Virtual)
5.00
·14 reviews
Dr. Ince was professional, attentive, and very thorough. He took the time to listen carefully and explain everything in a way that was easy to understand. I never felt rushed, and I appreciated how thoughtful and detail-oriented he was. Highly recommend for anyone looking for a knowledgeable and com...Click to read more
Anderson, AL
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time ·
Read bio
VirtuHealthMD is a fully virtual medical practice founded by Dr. William Ryan Ince, a board-certified Family Medicine physician who is also board-certified in Lifestyle Medicine and a Certified Functional Medicine Practitioner (CFMP). The practice focuses on preventive care, longevity strategy, meta...Click to read more
Internist (Virtual)
Anderson, AL
Accepts BlueCross BlueShield + 8 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
Pediatrician (Virtual)
Anderson, AL
Accepts BlueCross BlueShield + 34 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
Internist (Virtual)
5.00
·2 reviews
Office was busy and my impression was very organized - May 20, 2026 by Paul G.Click to read more
Anderson, AL
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 39 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time
Family Physician (Virtual)
Anderson, AL
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 16 more
Accepting new patients · 25 years of experience · Offers video visits ·
Family Physician (Virtual)
Anderson, AL
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 38 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
Family Physician (Virtual)
Anderson, AL
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 38 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
Read bio
Dr. Roxana Cham, MD works in Kent, WA as a Family Medicine Physician and has 21 years experience. Dr. Cham is board certified in Family Practice and graduated from University of Texas Health Sciences Center at San Antonio Long School of Medicine in 2005. Dr. Cham completed a residency at Scottsdale...Click to read more
Family Physician (Virtual)
4.00
·2 reviews
Anderson, AL
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 10 more
Accepting new patients · 16 years of experience · Offers video visits · Expertise in high cholesterol + 9 more
Family Physician (Virtual)
4.71
·2033 reviews
Zero wait time, he was kind, patient, and thorough. - Nov 5, 2020Click to read more
Anderson, AL
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 69 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Excellent wait time ·
Read bio
Medications from the controlled substance categories will NOT be prescribed for video visits. To avoid cancellation fees, please make sure you intend to show up for an appointment prior to booking. Dr. Clement Ayanbadejo earned his Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery degree from the Univers...Click to read more
Physician Assistant (Virtual)
5.00
·10 reviews
Kaytee IS THE BEST! Hands down. Have not worked with any provider this great as an adult. Highly recommend! by SJClick to read more
Anderson, AL
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time ·
Read bio
***** After booking, you’ll receive access to our patient portal to complete intake forms and finalize your appointment." Appointment costs: 1) Initial Weight Management Consultation, 40 minutes, $120 2) Initial Telemedicine visit (Illness or primary care), 20 minutes, $75 Kaytee has been a Phys...Click to read more
Internist (Virtual)
5.00
·2 reviews
Dr. Duhon was a consummate professional who took the time to answer all my questions and explain his prognosis in terminology I could understand. His empathy and knowledge made me feel comfortable and confident in his care. I would highly recommend him to anyone seeking competent medical care! by KKClick to read more
Anderson, AL
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time ·
Read bio
Notice: I am currently unable to accept health insurance at this time. All visits are out of pocket. Dr. Gregory Duhon, MD, is an Internal Medicine Physician and Hospitalist with acumen in ICU, emergency room, and crisis/pandemic management. After earning his Bachelor of Science in Biology from ...Click to read more
Internist (Virtual)
Anderson, AL
Accepting new patients · 21 years of experience · Offers video visits · Expertise in chronic diabetes + 2 more ·
Read bio
After years of training—earning my Bachelor’s from the University of Florida, my Doctor of Medicine from the University of Miami, and completing my Internal Medicine residency at Emory University—I finally achieved my dream of becoming a physician. I married, had two children, and continued to build...Click to read more
Internist (Virtual)
Anderson, AL
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Expertise in chronic diabetes + 2 more
Family Nurse Practitioner (Virtual)
3.67
·3 reviews
I would like to go back over it again before I wrote anything about it but it is good and help me - Jul 22, 2024 by Thomas D.Click to read more
Dothan, AL
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 12 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Excellent wait time ·
Read bio
Ms. Jesslyn Smith is a family nurse practitioner certified by the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners National Certification Board. She offers in-person and virtual consultations at Extended Clinics in Dothan, AL. Focusing on preventive care and patient education, Ms. Smith strives to empower...Click to read more
Nurse Practitioner
11.5 mi · 5511 US-280, Ste 223, Birmingham, AL 35242
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 56 more
Also offers video visits · Accepting new patients ·
Read bio
Ms. Shoni Tew is an experienced family nurse practitioner in Birmingham, AL. She offers in-office and virtual consultations at Lifetime Primary Care. As part of her formal education, Ms. Tew completed a bachelor's degree at The University of Alabama and a master's degree in nursing at the Universit...Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Nurse Practitioner
4.62
·86 reviews
She was early for the apt by 40 mins, but it worked. She heard me, but there was no talking on my side. That was unfortunate. - Oct 6, 2025 by Jennifer M.Click to read more
11.5 mi · 5511 US-280, Ste 223, Birmingham, AL 35242
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 56 more
Also offers video visits · Accepting new patients · Excellent wait time ·
Read bio
Odunayo Babatunde, CRNP PRIVATE PAY rate for patients with high deductibles or no insurance is $130 per visit. Payments (private pay, copay, deductible, coinsurance) must be made upfront, no exceptions. If you can't pay, please cancel online through ZocDoc. SERVICE EXCLUSIONS - No disability/accid...Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Family Nurse Practitioner
4.60
·884 reviews
Dr Lyons is a great Dr she listen to her patients she genuinely cares about her patients - Jun 6, 2020 by Ricky M.Click to read more
11.5 mi · 5511 US-280, Ste 223, Birmingham, AL 35242
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 66 more
Also offers video visits · Accepting new patients · Excellent wait time ·
Read bio
PRIVATE PAY rate for patients with high deductibles or no insurance is $130 per visit. Payments (private pay, copay, deductible, coinsurance) must be made upfront, no exceptions. If you can't pay, please cancel online through ZocDoc. SERVICE EXCLUSIONS - No disability/accident/injury exams - No ...Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Calendar Check
1-3 days

Average time it takes to be seen by a provider

Doctor
100k

Verified providers with a 4.8 average rating

Primary Care Physician
15+ years

In the business of finding quality care for patients

Patients trust Zocdoc
Thanks Zocdoc! You have been a lifesaver. I was able to find some of the best doctors. This app makes looking for quality care a lot easier.
Michael L
Zocdoc is great and so convenient. It always makes my appointments go smoothly as well.
Marta F
Easy same day appointment and was able to pick up my prescription within an hour of finishing my visit. Highly recommend
Jordan M
National Public Radio
New York Times
Yahoo
Self.com
Verge
Wall Street Journal
Frequently asked questions

How can I make a same-day appointment with a Nurse Practitioner in Birmingham?

On average, patients who use Zocdoc can search for a Nurse Practitioner in Birmingham, book an appointment, and see the Nurse Practitioner within 24 hours. Same-day appointments are often available, you can search for real-time availability of Nurse Practitioners in Birmingham who accept your insurance and make an appointment online.


How can I find a Birmingham Nurse Practitioner who takes my insurance?

Zocdoc lets you search specifically for a Birmingham Nurse Practitioner who takes your insurance. Just choose your carrier and plan from the drop-down menu at the top of the page. If you’re not sure which plan you have, you can use Zocdoc’s insurance checker to find out.


How can I book an appointment online with a Nurse Practitioner in Birmingham?

Zocdoc is a free online service that helps patients find Nurse Practitioners in Birmingham and book appointments instantly. You can search for Birmingham Nurse Practitioners by symptom or visit reason. Then, choose your insurance plan. Based on that information, you’ll see a list of providers who meet your search criteria, along with their available appointment slots.


How can I find a female Nurse Practitioner in Birmingham?

When you search for Birmingham Nurse Practitioners on Zocdoc, you can filter your results by gender, in addition to other criteria. That way, you’ll only see Nurse Practitioners in Birmingham who match your preferences.


How can I find a Birmingham Nurse Practitioner who sees patients after hours?

On Zocdoc, you can search specifically for Birmingham Nurse Practitioners with availability after 5 p.m.


How can I find a top-rated Nurse Practitioner in Birmingham?

You can use Zocdoc to find Nurse Practitioners in Birmingham who are highly rated by other patients. These ratings are based on verified reviews submitted by real patients. Every time a patient completes an appointment booked on Zocdoc, they’re invited to review their experience. Each review must comply with Zocdoc’s guidelines.


How can I find a video visit with a Nurse Practitioner online in Birmingham?

Nurse Practitioners in Birmingham on Zocdoc who see patients through online video visits will have a purple video icon on their profiles. You can also filter your search results to show only Nurse Practitioners who offer video visits.


Are video visits with a Nurse Practitioner online covered by my insurance?

Most insurers provide coverage for video visits at the same cost as in-person visits. You can search on Zocdoc specifically for Nurse Practitioners in Birmingham who accept your insurance for video visits by selecting your carrier and plan from the drop-down menu at the top of the page. We recommend you check with your insurance carrier directly to confirm your coverage and out of pocket costs for video visits.


How can I find a Nurse Practitioner in Birmingham who sees patients in the morning or evening?

Zocdoc lets you search specifically for a Nurse Practitioner who has appointments available before 10:00 am, or after 5:00 pm. Just choose the special hours filter at the top of our search page.


How can I find a Nurse Practitioner in Birmingham who sees patients during the weekend?

Zocdoc let's you see real-time availability for Nurse Practitioners in Birmingham. Many Nurse Practitioners offer appointments on Saturdays and Sundays.


What is a nurse practitioner?

A nurse practitioner offers various acute, primary, and chronic care services. The nurse practitioner works independently to provide regular care for patients suffering from health disorders or works alongside a doctor to assist them in a hospital setting. They play a massive role as primary care providers and perform additional tasks in many facilities. 


Registered nurses provide care to patients in many settings. For example, family nurse practitioners (FNP) care for all family members regardless of age or health conditions. A women's nurse practitioner focuses on issues relating to women's health. They prevent diseases, guide patients, and promote the well-being and healthy lifestyle of the person. 


Nurse practitioners see patients when they feel unwell, need to be hospitalized, have injuries, or require surgical procedures. They can also perform diagnostic and laboratory tests to help doctors make diagnoses and offer treatments. Some responsibilities involve intubation, debriding wounds, and putting casts on damages and injuries. Moreover, family nurse practitioners can diagnose and treat acute or chronic problems in doctor's offices or outpatient settings. 


Where do nurse practitioners work?

Nurse practitioners work in various settings based on their specialty, providing care to diverse patients. Below are common environments where you might find a nurse practitioner:

  • Private clinics or hospitals: Nurse practitioners often collaborate with physicians, surgeons, and technicians in hospitals or private clinics. They may work in specialties such as dermatology, cardiology, pediatrics, gynecology, and family medicine.
  • Emergency rooms or urgent care centers: In these high-pressure environments, nurse practitioners provide acute care for various injuries and illnesses. They may also perform emergency procedures like intubation or central line placement. Urgent care centers, often located in malls, pharmacies, or retail stores, also employ nurse practitioners to address minor health concerns.
  • Schools: Certified school nurses or nurse practitioners conduct routine health check-ups, perform tests, and educate students about topics like sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) or sports injuries, following Department of Education guidelines.
  • Nursing homes: Nurse practitioners care for older adults by monitoring vital signs, managing medications, and updating treatment plans. They may perform vascular procedures, provide hospice care, and address patients' physical, emotional, and psychological needs.


Education and clinical training of a nurse practitioner

Nurse practitioners obtain their undergraduate and at least a postgraduate degree in nursing. Some may study further for an advanced degree based on their desired field. American nursing associations also recommend that nurse practitioners earn a doctoral degree in nursing or related subfields. 

  • Education: To become a nurse practitioner, an aspirant earns a degree that allows them to apply for RN licensure. They have multiple degree programs, such as a diploma, associate degree in nursing (ADN), an undergraduate degree in nursing, or BSN. However, going for a BSN might be a wiser choice if the aspirant is sure that they want to become a nurse practitioner. A nursing bachelor of science will allow students to transfer credits and help them build a solid foundation to apply for a master's degree. 
  • Advanced degree: Nurses also take up advanced degrees to further their education. They can opt for a nursing science (MSN) or doctor of nursing practice (DNP) degree. By choosing this path, they will gain more knowledge about their profession and receive advanced training in their focus specialty. Bridge programs will also enable them to go directly from an ADN to an MSN. These programs will save time while allowing aspirants to earn multiple degrees. A nursing education's duration and length depend on a nursing aspirant's path. The general time frames for these courses are: 
  • Diploma RN degree: two years
  • ADN degree: two years
  • BSN programs: four years
  • MSN programs: two to three years
  • DNP programs: three to five years
  • Bridge programs: three to five years
  • Exams and license: Nurses take up RN and nurse practitioner license exams after earning the required essential degrees. They pass the National Council Licensure Examination to acquire their license. 


After becoming registered nurses, keeping the license in good standing throughout their careers is mandatory. Nurses also choose to pursue certification programs to focus on their specialization. To apply for state licensure, nurses must submit their exam results and proof of education to their state's board of nursing. Each state has its requirements and rules for maintaining licensure. 


What are the different nurse practitioners' specialties?

Nurse practitioners can undergo further training and gain expertise in various specialties. A few of those specialties include the following:

  1. Family nurse practitioners: Family nurse practitioners' roles are diverse and flexible. They provide preventive and primary care to patients with acute or chronic conditions across their lifespan. They can also perform well-child and well-woman exams and routine physical examinations for adults. 
  2. Acute care nurse practitioners: They specialize in caring for patients with acute conditions. They assess, diagnose, and treat ailments and evaluate the patient's response to treatment. 
  3. Emergency room nurse practitioners: They specialize in quickly stabilizing patients and assessing and diagnosing emergent or acute conditions. They care for patients suffering from traumatic injuries, infectious diseases, heart attacks, and psychotic disorders. They also perform sutures, prescribe medications, and coordinate follow-ups. 
  4. Adult-gerontology nurse practitioners: They focus on providing care to adults and older adults suffering from acute or chronic conditions. They develop long-term, trustworthy relationships with the patient for optimal care.
  5. Aesthetic nurse practitioners: These are also called cosmetic nurse practitioners and can provide aesthetic medical care. They work in dermatology or plastic surgery departments in hospitals or specialty clinics and focus on providing care to patients who undergo aesthetic or cosmetic treatments.
  6. Neonatal nurse practitioners: They focus on caring for newborn babies or infants requiring specialized medical care. They provide care to infants in the first 28 days after birth.
  7. Forensic nurse practitioners: Their scope of work combines healthcare and law. Forensic nurse practitioners focus on collecting physical evidence from victims and providing care. They provide trauma care and support violent crime survivors. They can also act as witnesses in a court of law. 
  8. Hospice nurse practitioners: They mainly specialize in providing end-of-life care. They optimize patient comfort during the final stages of life and offer a peaceful environment. They often work in a team to support the patient and the family.


How does a nurse practitioner differ from a physician?

Nurse practitioners and physicians often share responsibilities and work in similar healthcare settings, but their licensing, training, and scope of practice differ. Nurse practitioners assess patients directly and provide comprehensive care, including conducting tests, offering post-surgery care, and developing disease prevention plans. They can manage a patient’s overall health.


Physicians, or doctors of medicine (MDs), prescribe diagnostic tests and medications and treat diseases. In some states, nurse practitioners can prescribe medication independently; in others, they require a physician’s authorization.


Physicians undergo more extensive and technical clinical training than nurse practitioners, focusing on diagnosing and treating complex medical conditions. Their educational paths also differ significantly. Physicians complete medical school and earn advanced degrees, such as an MD, followed by a longer and more rigorous training period than nurse practitioners.


The role of nurses in our current healthcare system 

Nurses are the cornerstone of the primary healthcare system. In current times and due to the changing needs of the healthcare industry, the roles of nurses are constantly changing. They deliver high-standard care to the general public. Although 70 years ago, nurses were considered less integral members of a medical team, right now, their responsibilities and collaborations with other doctors save people's lives. 


  • Nurses spend time with their patients: Patients usually meet and see nurses right after they enter the hospital. Nurses ask about your health, check your vitals, and engage in small talk to make you feel comfortable. Skilled nurses know that the more time they spend with their patients, the more they learn about their health and medical needs. They also talk to you regarding the medications and recovery process. 
  • Nurses gain unique insights: As nurses spend a lot of time with their patients, they also gain individual information about their patients' medical lives. They provide personalized care and become essential advocates since they learn about their patients' needs, wants, behaviors, health habits, and concerns. 


Before and after the medical visit, nurses assess various aspects of the person's life, such as their vitals, reasons for visiting, fall risk scores, medical history, and current medications. They summarize the essential details to the doctor and play a vital role in uncovering the problem and devising an accurate treatment plan. 


Some general healthcare tips to stay healthy

You can live a wholesome and fulfilling life by maintaining a healthy lifestyle. Here are some general healthcare tips to help you get started:

  • Regular exercise: Engage in regular physical activity. It promotes overall health and aids in maintaining a healthy weight. Aim for at least 30 minutes of exercise per week. Running, yoga, dance, and sports are all beneficial forms of activity.
  • Balanced diet: Consume a well-balanced diet, including various fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and healthy fats. Limit processed, salty, and sugary foods.
  • Avoid smoking and limit alcohol usage: Quit smoking and limit your alcohol consumption to lower the risk of various health problems. These include heart diseases, cancer, and more.
  • Regular health check-ups and vaccinations: Stay up-to-date with vaccinations as they can protect you from many diseases. Schedule regular check-ups with your healthcare practitioner for preventive screenings and to manage underlying health conditions. Locating the best nurse practitioners near you can be helpful for both cases.
  • Sun protection: When outdoors, use sunscreen with an SPF of 15 or higher. It shields the skin from dangerous UV rays and reduces the risk of skin cancer. While choosing sunglasses, select the ones with 99% sun protection.
  • Mental health awareness: Check your mental health and seek help when needed. Talk to a professional if you are experiencing persistent sadness, anxiety, or other emotional issues.
  • Practice good hygiene: Wash your hands frequently. When coughing or sneezing, keep your mouth and nose covered. Avoid close contact with unwell people to prevent the spread of infections.
  • Follow traffic laws: Follow the rules, such as wearing seat belts while driving, not using your phone while driving, and more. Abiding by the rules can help you prevent significant injuries in an accident. 


These tips are general guidelines, and individual health needs may vary. You can always see a healthcare professional for personalized advice.


Finding the best nurse practitioners near you in Birmingham, Alabama 

Nurses have plenty of autonomy to assist the medical team members. They act immediately to stabilize the individual, and in some cases, they can also operate without seeking prior permission from the doctor. For example, suppose they notice a drop in magnesium levels in a patient. In that case, nurses may immediately give the patient magnesium before consulting with the doctor. Nurses have a thorough understanding of their roles and responsibilities and use their training to create collaborative and trusting relationships with both the patients and the doctors. You can find a nurse and request their assistance in various medical procedures. 


To find the best nurse practitioners in your vicinity who can understand your medical needs and concerns, register a free account on Zocdoc and use many of our advanced features! In the search box, you can type your symptoms, conditions, procedures, doctor's specialty, location, date, and insurance carrier plan. For example, enter "dizziness," "stomach ulcer," and "nurse practitioner" in the search bar and "Birmingham, Alabama" as the location to narrow your search. You must mention as many details as possible to make the process easy and effective. 


Moreover, every provider on Zocdoc has a unique profile. You will find the list of providers after you enter the search button. To compare healthcare providers' profiles, you can read about their academic qualifications, medical background, research interests, services, types of appointments, languages they speak, and so on. For example, if you want to find a nurse who can speak your first language, you can navigate through their profile and find the information. 


Our online patient support center is available to assist you in finding nurse practitioners who accept your insurance. With Zocdoc, you can connect your medical, dental, and vision insurance plans to your account, though you can use only one plan per appointment.


You can include your secondary insurance details in the appointment notes if you have multiple insurance plans. Additionally, if your healthcare provider uses Zocdoc’s Intake forms, you can easily enter your secondary insurance information during the booking process.


You can also use our verified ratings and patient reviews to make an informed decision. Once you find a practitioner meeting your criteria, you can book in-person or online appointments. Booking appointments with nurse practitioners near you on Zocdoc is simple, free, and secure!


Statistics on nurse practitioners in Alabama

According to NursingProcess.org, nurse practitioners are becoming well-known for their work in the healthcare system in the United States. More than 1.06 billion people in the United States annually visit a nurse practitioner. As of May 2020, around 211,280 nurse practitioners actively provide services to people in the US. The US Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts a growth of 52% in new employment of nurse practitioners between 2020 and 2030.


According to the Kaiser Family Foundation, as of August 2022, almost 267,996 nurse practitioners are employed in the United States. In Alabama, 4,704 nurse practitioners are actively providing services. Nurses have the opportunity to work in various settings. In the United States, over half of them work in family practice (147,260), followed by adult nursing (22,820) and adult-gerontology primary care services (14,790). 


Sources

WebMD

Healthline

MedlinePlus

American Association of Nurse Practitioners

Mercer University

NursingProcess.org[1]

NursingProcess.org[2]

NursingProcess.org[3]

NursingProcess.org[4]

U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics

Kaiser Family Foundation

UCSF HEALTH

American Addiction Centers

World Health Organization


The content herein is provided for general informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Medical information changes constantly, and therefore the content on this website should not be assumed to be current, complete or exhaustive. Always seek the advice of your doctor before starting or changing treatment. If you think you may have a medical emergency, please call your doctor or 9-1-1 immediately.

ZocdocNurse PractitionersBirmingham, AL