Harpreet Gujral, RN, MSN, CRNP Center for Liver Diseases, Inova Fairfax Hospital, Fall Church, VA
Carla Viscomi, RN, BSN Division of Gastroenterology, MetroHealth Medical Center, Cleveland, OH
Rochelle Collantes, MD, MPH Center for Liver Diseases, Inova Fairfax Hospital, Fall Church, VA
Correspondence: Harpreet Gujral, RN, MSN, CRNP, Inova Fairfax Hospital, Center for Liver Diseases, Department of Medicine, 3300 Gallows Road, Falls Church, VA 22042; e-mail: harpreet.gujral@inova.com
Ms. Gujral reported that she serves as a consultant to the Schering-Plough corporation.
Ms. Viscomi and Dr. Collantes reported that they have no commercial affiliations or interests that pose a potential conflict of interest with this article.
ABSTRACT
The number of "physician extenders" (nurse practitioners and physician assistants) caring for patients with chronic hepatitis C is rising rapidly. Their growing role in the management of these patients promises greater efficiency in the delivery of care and more provider interaction with patients. This may yield benefits in terms of patient education and support, management of medication side effects, and patient adherence to treatment regimens. This article reviews the role of physician extenders in the management of patients with hepatitis C and outlines strategies for maximizing their contribution to the care of these patients.