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72 verified Nurse Practitioners in Indianapolis, IN
Zocdoc verifies all providers before they can appear in Zocdoc search results. Every provider that appears in search is open to new patients.
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Availability last updated 04/01/2026
Availability last updated 04/01/2026
Urgent Care Clinic
3.56
·9 reviews
Doctor and staff was efficient. Only problem is the pharmacy can't find my perscription. - Feb 20, 2026 by Paula S.Click to read more
7 mi · 7910 E. Washington St, Ste 110, Indianapolis, IN 46219
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 32 more
Accepting new patients
Next available: tomorrow
Urgent Care Clinic
3.95
·21 reviews
No - Jan 30, 2026 by Pete R.Click to read more
11 mi · 489 S. State Rd 135, Ste F, Greenwood, IN 46142
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 32 more
Accepting new patients
Next available: today
Urgent Care Clinic
4.67
·6 reviews
They were very nice and very Thought . Very friendly. - Mar 16, 2026 by Jeanette J.Click to read more
11.5 mi · 8177 Clearvista Pkwy, Ste B, Indianapolis, IN 46256
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 32 more
Accepting new patients
Next available: today
Urgent Care Clinic
4.14
·7 reviews
14 mi · 12751 N Pennsylvania St, Ste 120, Carmel, IN 46032
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 32 more
Accepting new patients · Excellent wait time
Next available: today
Family Physician
4.92
·170 reviews
Very fluid when speaking, place inside looked neat and clean, I felt welcomed Highly recommend!!! - Feb 4, 2021 by Mustafa A.Click to read more
12.5 mi · 3965 W 106th St, Ste 140, Carmel, IN 46032
Also offers video visits · Accepting new patients · 25+ years of experience · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time ·
Read bio
Using techniques informed by research and evidence, Board-certified ER Physician Dr. CJ Pabla, MD, who earned his Doctor of Medicine from Indiana University, focuses on the whole person, making use of all appropriate therapeutic and lifestyle approaches to healthcare. In his Indianapolis-based pract...Click to read more
Next available: Mon, Apr 6
Urgent Care Clinic
5.00
·1 review
15 mi · 8890 E. 116th St, Ste 130A, Fishers, IN 46038
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 32 more
Accepting new patients · Highly recommended
Next available: tomorrow
Family Physician
5.00
·17 reviews
It was one of the best experiences I've had seeing a doctor in my whole life. He really took the time to listen, discuss possibilities and provide options along with plans for care in the future (if necessary). I never felt rushed and it felt good to know we had found someone that truly cared. by C...Click to read more
15 mi · 8402 E 116th St, Ste 100, Fishers, IN 46038
Accepting new patients · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time · Expertise in sepsis + 8 more ·
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Our clinic is Self-Pay. The consultation fee is up to $350/hour depending on the time spent with the provider. A $50 deposit is required during confirmation of your appointment. Dr. Milien is a dedicated physician with over a decade of experience in medical practice. He earned his medical degree f...Click to read more
Next available: Fri, Apr 3
Family Physician
15.5 mi · 9783 E 116th St, a373, Fishers, IN 46037
Also offers video visits · Accepting new patients ·
Read bio
Dr. Vernon is an osteopathic physician providing personalized medical care through both telemedicine and in-home visits for patients in Noblesville, Fishers, Carmel, Geist, and Westfield. His approach is designed for individuals and families who value convenience, accessibility, and a more direct re...Click to read more
Next available: Sat, Apr 4
Family Physician
5.00
·10 reviews
This office is great! Doc & staff are amazing, friendly, & caring! by KSClick to read more
29 mi · 204 W Main St, Arcadia, IN 46030
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 49 more
Accepting new patients · 25+ years of experience · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time · Expertise in coronary artery disease + 9 more ·
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Dr. Leer grew up in Hamilton County and opened Lakeview Family Medicine in 1999. Education Dr. Leer graduated from the Kirksville College of Osteopathic Medicine. Board Certified: Family Medicine Certified by the National Board of Osteopathic Medical Examiners.Click to read more
Next available: Mon, Apr 6
Urgent Care Clinic
4.00
·1 review
34.5 mi · 3125 S Scatterfield Rd, Ste 100, Anderson, IN 46013
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 32 more
Accepting new patients · Excellent wait time
Next available: tomorrow
Internist (Virtual)
5.00
·2 reviews
Excellent - I feel relaxed & more comfortable after a session with Dr. Pittman. She answers my concerns and makes good recommendations, indicating she really cares. by HSClick to read more
Terre Haute, IN
Accepting new patients · 25 years of experience · Offers video visits · Highly recommended ·
Read bio
Dr. Lynn Pittman is an internist who offers virtual consultations to patients through her private practice, ?Lynn Pittman DO Internal Medicine?. She provides care to adult patients aged 18 and above who are facing common illnesses, chronic diseases, and minor injuries. ? Dr. Pittman understands pati...Click to read more
Next available: Sat, Apr 4
Internist (Virtual)
4.53
·1590 reviews
I would go back. I had an excellent experience, I am very happy with this provider. - Nov 21, 2024Click to read more
Westphalia, IN
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: today
Internist (Virtual)
4.62
·1472 reviews
Efficient, thorough, knowledgeable, very personable and professional. - May 22, 2024 by Dr Erika E.Click to read more
Westphalia, IN
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 71 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Excellent wait time · Expertise in pneumonia and respiratory infections + 4 more ·
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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
Physician Assistant (Virtual)
5.00
·10 reviews
Maribel was amazing! Se took hr time and listened to my health concerns. I don’t feel rushed and I can really tell she cares for her patients. I would highly recommend her! by KMClick to read more
Westphalia, IN
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended ·
Read bio
We are a self-pay/cash-pay clinic, and all visits are $99. GLP-1 medications are not included in this pricing and can be discussed separately. I bring over 22 years of experience in the medical field, caring for patients with a wide range of conditions. My early foundation in healthcare led me to pu...Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Nurse Practitioner (Gastroenterology) (Virtual)
4.97
·30 reviews
Westphalia, IN
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 7 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended ·
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
Next available: Tue, Apr 7
Nurse Practitioner (Gastroenterology) (Virtual)
4.97
·32 reviews
Dr. Anderson was very polite, knowledgeable and such a big help. I appreciated her for explaining things and answering all of my questions. I’ve searched for help with my condition and I have a feeling she will help me. - Mar 25, 2026 by Kiara D.Click to read more
Westphalia, IN
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 7 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time ·
Read bio
Ashley Anderson, a board-certified family nurse practitioner, brings over 20 years of experience to Oshi Health. She aims to provide compassionate care that improves symptoms and elevates patient quality of life. Before joining Oshi, Ashley spent 17 years in a private outpatient gastroenterology a...Click to read more
Next available: Mon, Apr 13
Nurse Practitioner
5.00
·3 reviews
5.5 mi · 6401 E Washington St, Indianapolis, IN 46219
Accepts Medicare
Accepting new patients · Highly recommended · Expertise in high cholesterol + 1 more ·
Read bio
Bernadette Ashley is an Internal Medicine Specialist at our Irvington primary care office. She holds a Master’s in Adult Gerontology Nursing from Indiana University. Bernadette is excited to get to know you and provide the personalized care you deserve. Our primary care providers and supporting care...Click to read more
Nurse Practitioner
6 mi · 2240 E 53rd St, Indianapolis, IN 46220
Accepts Medicare
Accepting new patients · Expertise in chronic diabetes + 1 more ·
Read bio
Elizabeth Beers is an Internal Medicine Specialist at our Glendale primary care doctor's office. She earned her Master's in Nursing from Indiana University and is excited to get to know you and provide the personalized care you deserve. Our primary care providers and supporting care team develop pre...Click to read more
Nurse Practitioner
5.00
·1 review
6 mi · 2240 E 53rd St, Indianapolis, IN 46220
Accepts Medicare
Accepting new patients · Highly recommended · Expertise in chronic diabetes + 1 more ·
Read bio
Amy Steiner is a Geriatric Medicine Specialist at our Glendale primary care office. She is excited to get to know you and provide the personalized care you deserve. Our primary care providers and supporting care team develop preventive care plans to help you achieve your physical and mental health g...Click to read more
Internist
5.00
·2 reviews
4.5 mi · 4200 S East St, Indianapolis, IN 46227
Accepts Medicare
Accepting new patients · 25+ years of experience · Highly recommended · Expertise in arthritis + 5 more ·
Read bio
Dr. Bassem Adie is an Internal Medicine Specialist at our University Heights primary care office. He earned his Doctor of Medicine degree from the University of Damascus Faculty of Medicine. Dr. Adie is excited to get to know you and provide the personalized care you deserve. Our primary care provid...Click to read more
Family Nurse Practitioner
5.00
·1 review
5.5 mi · 6401 E Washington St, Indianapolis, IN 46219
Accepts Medicare
Accepting new patients · Highly recommended ·
Read bio
Carla Fortner is a Family Medicine Specialist at our Irvington primary care office. She holds a Master's in Family Nursing from Indiana Wesleyan University and is excited to get to know you and provide the personalized care you deserve. Our primary care providers, along with the supporting care team...Click to read more
Family Nurse Practitioner
5.00
·1 review
5.5 mi · 6401 E Washington St, Indianapolis, IN 46219
Accepts Medicare
Accepting new patients · Highly recommended ·
Read bio
Kimberly Fisher is a Family Medicine Specialist at our Irvington primary care office. She is excited to get to know you and provide the personalized care you deserve. Our primary care providers and supporting care team develop preventive care plans to help you achieve your physical and mental health...Click to read more
Family Physician
5.00
·2 reviews
5.5 mi · 6401 E Washington St, Indianapolis, IN 46219
Accepts Medicare
Accepting new patients · 24 years of experience · Highly recommended · Expertise in chronic diabetes + 2 more ·
Read bio
Dr. David Schweck is a Family Medicine Specialist at our Irvington primary care office. He earned his Doctor of Medicine degree from the American University of the Caribbean School of Medicine. Dr. Schweck is excited to get to know you and provide the personalized care you deserve. Our primary care ...Click to read more
Family Physician
5.00
·1 review
5.5 mi · 6401 E Washington St, Indianapolis, IN 46219
Accepts Medicare
Accepting new patients · Highly recommended · Expertise in chronic high blood pressure + 1 more ·
Read bio
Dr. Kevin Wineinger is a Family Medicine Specialist at our Irvington primary care office. He earned his Doctor of Medicine degree from Indiana University. Dr. Wineinger is excited to get to know you and provide the personalized care you deserve. Our primary care providers, along with the supporting ...Click to read more
Gerontology Nurse Practitioner
5.00
·3 reviews
5.5 mi · 6401 E Washington St, Indianapolis, IN 46219
Accepts Medicare
Accepting new patients · Highly recommended · Expertise in high cholesterol + 1 more ·
Read bio
Jessica Birge is an Adult-Gerontology Nurse Practitioner at our Irvington primary care office. She is excited to get to know you and provide the personalized care you deserve. Our primary care providers and supporting care team develop preventive care plans to help you achieve your physical and ment...Click to read more
Family Nurse Practitioner
5.5 mi · 6401 E Washington St, Indianapolis, IN 46219
Accepts Medicare
Accepting new patients ·
Read bio
Vivian Gaines-Thompson is a Family Medicine Specialist at our Irvington primary care office. She holds a Master's in Family Nursing from the University of Saint Francis. Vivian is excited to get to know you and provide the personalized care you deserve. Our primary care providers and supporting care...Click to read more
Internist
5.00
·16 reviews
6 mi · 2240 E 53rd St, Indianapolis, IN 46220
Accepts Medicare
Accepting new patients · 19 years of experience · Highly recommended ·
Read bio
Dr. Jason Cadwallader is an Internal Medicine Specialist at our Glendale primary care office. Dr. Cadwallader is excited to get to know you and provide the personalized care you deserve. Our primary care providers and supporting care team develop preventive care plans to help you achieve your physic...Click to read more
Gerontology Nurse Practitioner
6 mi · 2240 E 53rd St, Indianapolis, IN 46220
Accepts Medicare
Accepting new patients ·
Read bio
Rosalie Moore is an Adult-Gerontology Nurse Practitioner at our Glendale primary care doctor’s office. Rosalie is excited to get to know you and provide the personalized care you deserve. Our primary care providers and supporting care team develop preventive care plans to help you achieve your physi...Click to read more
Family Physician
4.88
·8 reviews
6 mi · 2240 E 53rd St, Indianapolis, IN 46220
Accepts Medicare
Accepting new patients · 25+ years of experience · Expertise in diabetic emergency + 5 more ·
Read bio
Dr. Ann Arno is a Family Medicine Specialist at our Glendale primary care office. She earned her Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine degree from Des Moines University. Dr. Arno is excited to get to know you and provide the personalized care you deserve. Our primary care providers and supporting care team...Click to read more
Family Physician
5.00
·3 reviews
6 mi · 5926 Crawfordsville Rd, Indianapolis, IN 46224
Accepts Medicare
Accepting new patients · 25+ years of experience · Highly recommended · Expertise in chronic diabetes + 2 more ·
Read bio
Dr. Wanda Moody is a Family Medicine Specialist at our Speedway primary care office. She is excited to get to know you and provide the personalized care you deserve. Our primary care providers, along with the supporting care team, develop preventive care plans to help you achieve your physical and m...Click to read more
Family Nurse Practitioner
4.20
·5 reviews
6 mi · 5926 Crawfordsville Rd, Indianapolis, IN 46224
Accepts Medicare
Accepting new patients · Expertise in chronic diabetes + 1 more ·
Read bio
Brooke Humphrey is a Family Medicine Specialist at our Speedway primary care office. She holds a Master's in Family Nursing from Indiana State University and is excited to get to know you and provide the personalized care you deserve. Our primary care providers and supporting care team develop preve...Click to read more
Internist
6 mi · 5926 Crawfordsville Rd, Indianapolis, IN 46224
Accepts Medicare
Accepting new patients · Expertise in chronic high blood pressure + 3 more ·
Read bio
Dr. Arshiya Baig is an Internal Medicine Specialist at our Speedway primary care office. She earned her Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine degree from A.T. Still University. Dr. Baig is excited to get to know you and provide the personalized care you deserve. Our primary care providers and supporting ca...Click to read more
Family Physician
5.00
·4 reviews
6 mi · 5926 Crawfordsville Rd, Indianapolis, IN 46224
Accepts Medicare
Accepting new patients · 22 years of experience · Highly recommended · Expertise in chronic high blood pressure + 1 more ·
Read bio
Dr. Richard L. Schwartz is a Family Medicine Specialist at our Speedway primary care office. He earned his Doctor of Medicine degree from the University of Puerto Rico School of Medicine. Dr. Schwartz is excited to get to know you and provide the personalized care you deserve. Our primary care provi...Click to read more
Gerontology Nurse Practitioner
5.00
·4 reviews
6 mi · 5926 Crawfordsville Rd, Indianapolis, IN 46224
Accepts Medicare
Accepting new patients · Highly recommended · Expertise in chronic diabetes ·
Read bio
Heather Haney is an Adult-Gerontology Nurse Practitioner at our Speedway primary care doctor’s office. She earned her Master’s in Adult Geriatric Nursing from Indiana University. Heather is excited to get to know you and provide the personalized care you deserve. Our primary care providers and suppo...Click to read more
Family Nurse Practitioner
4.67
·3 reviews
6 mi · 5926 Crawfordsville Rd, Indianapolis, IN 46224
Accepts Medicare
Accepting new patients · Expertise in chronic diabetes ·
Read bio
Dawn Ericksen Clarke is a Family Medicine Specialist at our Speedway primary care office. Dawn is excited to get to know you and provide the personalized care you deserve. Our primary care providers and supporting care team develop preventive care plans to help you achieve your physical and mental h...Click to read more
Internist
7 mi · 6155 N College Ave, Indianapolis, IN 46220
Also offers video visits · Accepting new patients · Expertise in pneumonia and respiratory infections + 3 more ·
Read bio
Hi, I am Eric Djenge, MD. I am board certified by the American Board of Internal Medicine and have extensive training in Functional Medicine. I am currently working on my Functional Medicine certification through the Institute for Functional Medicine. I graduated with high honours from Ross Universi...Click to read more
Internist
4.97
·29 reviews
He was pleasant & knowledgeable. by MRClick to read more
10.5 mi · 9247 N Meridian St, Ste 320, Indianapolis, IN 46260
Also offers video visits · Accepting new patients · 14 years of experience · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time · Expertise in congestive heart failure + 1 more ·
Read bio
Accepting New Members. Contact our office for more information. Membership - $170/mo. (Ages 18-44), $190/mo. (Ages 45-69), $210/mo. (Ages 70+) Membership gives you unlimited access to our care. All consultations and services are fully included, so you never have to worry about extra charges. We als...Click to read more
Nurse Practitioner
4.94
·47 reviews
Brandi was lovely - really knowledgable and efficient. - Dec 23, 2025 by Linda S.Click to read more
71 mi · 1400 east crossing blvd, terre haute, IN 47802
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 15 more
Also offers video visits · Accepting new patients · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time ·
Read bio
Please note: We will reach out following your booking to verify your insurance, payment, and appointment details. Please confirm your insurance before booking, especially with Medicaid networks, so we can best serve your appointment. (I DO NOT take illinois meridian insurance yet) Greetings, my na...Click to read more
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
Westphalia, IN
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
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Frequently asked questions

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

On average, patients who use Zocdoc can search for a Nurse Practitioner in Indianapolis, 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 Indianapolis who accept your insurance and make an appointment online.


How can I find an Indianapolis Nurse Practitioner who takes my insurance?

Zocdoc lets you search specifically for an Indianapolis 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 Indianapolis?

Zocdoc is a free online service that helps patients find Nurse Practitioners in Indianapolis and book appointments instantly. You can search for Indianapolis 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 Indianapolis?

When you search for Indianapolis 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 Indianapolis who match your preferences.


How can I find an Indianapolis Nurse Practitioner who sees patients after hours?

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


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

You can use Zocdoc to find Nurse Practitioners in Indianapolis 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 Indianapolis?

Nurse Practitioners in Indianapolis 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 Indianapolis 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 Indianapolis 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 Indianapolis who sees patients during the weekend?

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


Who is a nurse practitioner?

Nurse practitioners are healthcare providers trained to provide primary and specialty care services. They either work in hospitals or acute care clinics, usually under the supervision of a doctor. They are also called Advanced Registered Nurse Practitioners (ARNPs) or Advanced Practice Registered Nurses (APRNs). A nurse practitioner holds more authority than a registered nurse.


Nurse practitioners are entitled to perform several duties, like gathering and maintaining patient history, diagnosing diseases and injuries, ordering lab work for diagnostic purposes, writing prescriptions, and performing medical tests such as a bone marrow biopsy, lumbar puncture, etc. They work not only in hospitals but also in schools, community clinics, and homes of patients. They are extensively needed in nephrology, emergency care, and psychiatry departments. A nurse practitioner is often considered a primary care professional in many medical and care facilities.


How do nurse practitioners differ from doctors?

At first glance, nurse practitioners and doctors have similar responsibilities. However, the following aspects set them apart:


  • Education: Doctors train for longer than nurse practitioners. Becoming a nurse practitioner takes 6 to 8 years, while it takes 1014 years to become a licensed doctor. 
  • Scope of work: Prescribing medicines is essential to a doctor's duties. While nurse practitioners can also prescribe medications independently in some states, a doctor may have to oversee them in others. Additionally, doctors provide more elaborate care. On the other hand, nurse practitioners possess limited responsibilities like conducting routine physicals, administering vaccinations, etc.
  • Nature of treatment: A doctor generally attends to the symptoms a patient is experiencing and tries to mitigate them. However, nurse practitioners try to reach the very root of the problem.


Typical specialties of nurse practitioners

Like any other physician, a nurse practitioner can specialize in several specialties. The most common of the lot are family nurse practitioners, who train to become primary care professionals.


The specialties in detail include the following:


  • Family nurse practitioners: They act as primary care providers and cater to patients of all ages. They make up most of the nurse practitioners, accounting for nearly 70%, according to the American Association of Nurse Practitioners (AANP). Their roles and responsibilities include conducting health screenings and physical examinations, monitoring patient updates and records, and creating and adjusting treatment plans as needed.
  • Adult nurse practitioners: They care for adults, and their responsibilities include conducting examinations and managing treatments and prescriptions. They can also educate patients about their conditions and help them manage their well-being.
  • Pediatric nurse practitioners: They look after the medical needs of children (babies to teenagers). They also conduct exams, write prescriptions, diagnose health conditions, and offer treatments. Moreover, pediatric nurse practitioners educate parents about their child's health issues to ensure a healthy growing environment. They work in various settings, from public health centers to private practice. Those working in acute care focus on treating patients facing acute, chronic, complex, or critical issues. Hence, acute pediatric nurse practitioners often work in specialty-based clinics, emergency departments, and ICUs.
  • Geriatric nurse practitioners: They care for older adults and typically administer care to nursing home residents. Their responsibilities include patient education and treating and managing those with age-related issues and other conditions like diabetes.
  • Women's nurse practitioners: They provide reproductive and gynecological care and sexual health services and diagnose reproductive system disorders. You can visit a women's nurse practitioner near you in OB/GYN offices, hospitals, fertility clinics, or other settings.
  • Neonatal nurse practitioners: They specialize in working with newborns in settings like neonatal intensive care units and labor and delivery units. They also provide counseling for new parents. Neonatal nurse practitioners work with other healthcare professionals to care for newborns born prematurely or with congenital disabilities, illnesses, or other health issues.
  • Acute nurse practitioners: They specialize in tackling situations in emergency rooms or urgent care centers to treat and manage sudden or severe injuries and illnesses.
  • Occupational health nurse practitioners: They focus on providing employee education and treating workplace injuries.
  • Adult–gerontology nurse practitioners: They primarily serve teenage and adult patients. They can work in various settings, including nursing homes, hospitals, private practices, or patients' homes. Some adult–gerontology nurse practitioners also help older adults.
  • Psychiatric nurse practitioners: They provide mental health care to patients by addressing their mental illnesses, substance abuse problems, or other disorders. They work in community mental health centers, schools, or private psychiatric practices.


Training and education of nurse practitioners

Aspirants must complete extensive education to become nurse practitioners and work in healthcare. A nurse practitioner usually holds a bachelor of science in nursing degree (around 3-4 years) or an associate degree in nursing. If they want to specialize in a specific nursing field, they will pursue a 2-3 year master of nursing science (MSN) degree or a 3-4 year doctor of nursing practice (DNP) degree. Lastly, aspirants must take a test administered by the National Council Licensure Examination to be certified for a registered nurse (RN) license and nurse practitioner license. 


History of nurse practitioners in the United States of America

The history of nursing practice as a profession dates back to the 1960s.


In 1965, Loretta Ford, EdD, PNP, FAAN, and a physician, Henry Silver, designed the first ever nurse practitioner training program at the esteemed University of Colorado. This was a response to a shortage of primary care doctors arising from the expansion of Medicaid and Medicare coverage to include low-income women, children, the elderly, and people with disabilities.


The American Nurses Association (ANA) founded the Council of Primary Care Nurse Practitioners in 1974 to help legitimize the role of NPs, creating an early description of an NP's duties. As the ANA felt a need to further standardize these duties, it began offering NP certification exams in 1977. By 1979, there were around 15,000 NPs practicing in the USA.


1985 was the year when The American Academy of Nurse Practitioners came into existence, and it gained 100 members in its first year. In 1987, the federal government spent $100 million on NP education. NP leaders made efforts to create limited reimbursement for NPs. This was possible because of the Omnibus Reconciliation Act of 1989.


In 1993, the AANP formed the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners Certification Program. From 1995 to 1999, the number of NPs increased from 40,000 to over 60,000, and the number of NP education programs outnumbered all other nursing specialties.


The National Nurse Practitioner Week, which was held annually in November, was recognized in a proclamation by the U.S. Congress in 2004. AANP celebrated its 25th anniversary in 2010 and participated in a meeting with the White House Office of Health Reform to review the primary care perspective on preventive care, coordinated primary care, access, quality of care, payment, and the need to recognize all primary care providers as solutions to the healthcare crisis.


There were more than 270,000 NPs practicing in the USA until 2019. Today, NPs have full scope of practice in 21 American states and the District of Columbia. Additionally, the profession is believed to continue growing, with around 244,000 NPs practicing in the nation by 2025.


When should you see a nurse practitioner?

Nurse practitioners can undertake holistic care. You must see a nurse practitioner near you if you require any of the following:


  • General health procedures: Vaccinations, pelvic exams, and neurological exams
  • Lifestyle counseling: Suggestions for dietary changes and exercises
  • Family planning: Prescription for birth control pills, insertion of intrauterine devices (IUD), and administration of hormone shots and patches 
  • Behavioral treatment: Counseling for depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, eating disorders, and attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)


What medical conditions do nurse practitioners treat?

Nurse practitioners can attend to a wide range of illnesses and injuries, which include:


  • Chronic issues like high blood pressure (hypertension), diabetes, asthma, arthritis, thyroid disease, osteoporosis, and high cholesterol
  • Digestive concerns such as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), food poisoning, indigestion, and gastroenteritis (stomach flu)
  • Skin concerns like acne, scarring, and hyperpigmentation
  • Infections, including influenza, yeast infections, and fungal infections
  • Minor injuries such as burns, small cuts, sprains, and fractures
  • Urinary conditions like incontinence, urinary tract infections (UTI), and enlarged prostate
  • Behavioral concerns, including depression, substance abuse, and eating disorders
  • Sexual health concerns: Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), erectile dysfunction, and menopause-related health conditions


How to find the best nurse practitioner near you in Indianapolis, Indiana

Looking for suitable healthcare experts in your vicinity is a challenging task. You must find the perfect specialist to receive the best care and service. Fret not; Zocdoc is here to make this process as easy and streamlined as possible. It is a platform with an extensive database of the top medical practitioners in the United States of America. You can quickly find the best nurse practitioners in your neighborhood with a few clicks.


To get started, create a free account on Zocdoc. Then, enter your details, such as the required specialty, symptoms or conditions, location and pin code, and preferred appointment date and time. Clicking on the search button will screen practitioners nationwide based on your criteria and present you with a list of experts matching your requirements.


You can also search for nurse practitioners who accept your insurance carrier and plan to save on medical expenses. When searching for a provider, choose your plan from the search bar. Accordingly, you can update your insurance information on your Zocdoc account to get refined search results. If you're searching from a smartphone or tablet, you can attach a picture of your insurance card to search for nurse practitioners within your network. Check out Zocdoc's insurance FAQs to learn more.


Additionally, you can view crucial details of every nurse practitioner near you on their dedicated profiles. These include their years of practice in the field, affiliations, licenses, certifications, gender, fluent languages, specialty areas, and more. Moreover, the authentic reviews left by real users on their profiles will assist you in making the right decision. Once you find the perfect nurse practitioner who sits right with all your needs, you can book an online or in-person appointment to take things further. All bookings on Zocdoc are simple, secure, and 100% free!


Statistics on nurse practitioners in Indianapolis and the United States of America

According to a report published in 2020 by the American Association of Nurse Practitioners (AANP), nursing is the second fastest-growing career in healthcare. More than 290,000 nurse practitioners are currently working in the United States of America. According to data from the U.S. Department of Labor, most of these nurse practitioners work in physicians' offices. The same source also suggests a nearly 40% increase in the job prospects for nurse practitioners from 2021 to 2031.


According to a 2021 report by the American Diabetes Association, diabetes is an epidemic in the United States. It affects over 34 million Americans and about 640,435 people in Indiana, or 12.3% of Indiana's adult population. Moreover, approximately 146,000 people in Indiana have diabetes but don't know it, significantly increasing their health risk. Some severe health complications of diabetes include stroke, end-stage kidney disease, heart disease, blindness, amputation—and even death. Therefore, it is imperative to consult a primary care provider, like a nurse practitioner, to screen and identify diabetes at its earliest stages.


According to Incredible Health, nurse practitioners' employment will grow to about 29.4% between 2018 and 2028, which means that the number of jobs available for nurse practitioners shall increase from around 4,930 to almost 6,400. This rise in demand for nurse practitioners is directly proportional to the rapid increase in outpatient facilities. Additionally, Indiana has a large urban and rural population, and the citizens continuously need primary, secondary, and tertiary medical attention.


Sources

Incredible Health

NursingProcess.org

Healthline

MedlinePlus

healthgrades

American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists 

ITM Group of Institutions

ANA Enterprise

Ohio Association of Advanced Practice Nurses


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.

Zocdoc›Nurse Practitioners›Indianapolis, IN