What is a Nurse Practitioner?

A Nurse Practitioner (NP) is a Registered Nurse who has taken the time to continue his/her education to obtain a Masters Degree in Nursing, along with additional clinical training so that he/she can diagnose and treat a variety of both acute and chronic conditions. They must also pass a national certification exam before applying for state licensure. There are several different types of NPs: Family Nurse Practitioner, Acute Care Nurse Practitioner, Nurse Anesthetist, Nurse Educator, and even Midwives (yes, Midwives are Nurse Practitioners!).

NPs can provide quality healthcare in virtually any medical setting – private practice, hospital setting, urgent care, home health and skilled nursing facilities, just to name a few. Additionally, we collaborate with physicians and specialists for those patients who need more advanced care, further ensuring the care and safety of our patients.

We can do it all – diagnose/treat/educate patients, serve as preceptors to budding nurses and NPs, hold board positions that affect public policy, all while serving to improve the healthcare dynamic of our community. Given the shortage of healthcare providers in rural areas, NPs are the perfect solution.

Will my insurance pay for me to see a Nurse Practitioner?

Absolutely! Many health plan contracts agree to pay for services billed under NP provider numbers at 85 percent of the physician fee schedule. In fact, it is often easier to get an appointment with an NP than it is with an MD.

What if I only need a certain service, and not a full physical/wellness check. Can I come to Community NP for that?

Yes. Community NP provides a multitude of services. From drug tests and vaccinations complete physicals [including DOT physicals], we offer services that fit the needs of the community we serve.

What if I need to cancel or reschedule my appointment?

Community NP understands that schedule changes happen. If you need to cancel or reschedule an appointment, please give our office 24 hours notice. Cancelations made within 24 hours of scheduled appointment time (or failure to show up for scheduled appointment), are subject to a $45 cancellation fee.

Who do I talk to about a billing question?

Start by calling our office. We’ll do our best to answer your question, otherwise we may direct you to your insurance company.
Office: (706) 438-1222

What is a “Wellness Session”?

Cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death worldwide, striking a staggering 17 million lives each year. To reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease, we must take into account both the modifiable and non-modifiable risk factors. Non-modifiable risk factors are the things we cannot control: age, sex, race, and genetics. However, the modifiable risk factors are well within our power to control: diet, exercise quotient, tobacco use. During this session, we will discuss your specific modifiable risk factors, along with your personal lifestyle dynamic in conjunction with current biological factors and lab/test results to develop a plan of care for and attainable goals to improved heath and decrease your cardiovascular risk.

How should I prepare for my physical exam?

Here are a few helpful tips on preparing for your physical exam:

1. Bring a list of all medicines you take (both prescription and over the counter)
2. Bring a list of all questions you would like to ask
3. Bring a list of the names (and office addresses) of any healthcare providers you see
4. If you have an implanted device such as a defibrillator or a pacemaker, bring a copy of the front and back of your device card
5. Try not to eat anything after midnight the night before (or for at least 4hours if your appointment is in the afternoon), but do drink water as you may need to provide a urine sample