About Us

NP:  A nurse practitioner (NP) is a masters or doctorate-prepared nurse who has received specialized education and training in clinical practice. NPs are nationally certified and state-licensed to examine, diagnose, and provide treatment to patients. NPs work in many health care settings, including critical care in the hospital, and outpatient medicine.  NPs with more than 5 years of clinical practice / experience may practice independently.

PA:  Physician Associates (PA) are nationally certified and state licensed to practice medicine. PAs perform a comprehensive range of medical duties, from primary care to assisting in major surgery. PAs are educated at the graduate level and practice in every medical and surgical setting and specialty.

CNS:  A Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS) is an Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN) prepared by a master’s, or doctoral, or post-graduate certificate level CNS program. CNSs diagnose, prescribe, and treat patients and specialty populations across the continuum of care. The CNS improves outcomes by providing direct patient care, leading evidence-based practice, optimizing organizational systems, and advancing nursing practice.

CRNA:  UVA CRNAs are Advanced Practice Providers (APP) with a nursing and anesthesia background. After receiving a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) , a CRNA spends an average of 3-6 years in the critical care intensive care unit, and continues on to complete a 3 year post graduate doctorate degree to receive a Doctorate of Nursing Practice (DNP). This is an average of 10-16 years of education specific to nursing, critical care, and anesthesiology.  More than 60 CRNAs work collaboratively with an MD anesthesiologist to deliver care to all types of patients in every setting in which anesthesia is delivered.

CNM:  A certified nurse midwife (CNM) is a board-certified, graduate prepared nurse specializing in nurturing, hands-on care before, during, and after birth.  Midwives are expert at developing trusting relationships with mothers and families, resulting in confident, supported labor and birth experiences.  Midwives encourage shared decision-making so mothers feel informed and empowered to make health decisions for themselves, their infants, and their families.  They deliver individualized care to address each mother’s psychological and social needs.

Audiologists:  An audiologist is a master’s or doctoral level (Au.D. or Ph.D.) trained Advanced Practice Provider who has specialized education, training, certification and state licensure for clinical practice.  Audiologists provide patient-centered care in the prevention, identification, diagnosis, and evidence-based intervention and non-medical treatment of hearing, balance, and other related disorders for patients of all ages.  The Audiology team at UVA Health provides comprehensive diagnostic and aural habilitative services to minimize the negative impact of hearing and balance disorders among patients, leading to improved outcomes and quality of life. 

GC:  Genetic Counselors (GCs) are masters-trained, board certified, and licensed to practice genetic counseling. They provide an in-depth knowledge regarding genetic conditions by discussing risk assessments, therapy and treatment options, familial implications, and genetic testing options with both families and collaborating providers. They are also specially trained to handle the many psychosocial issues that can arise when discussing genetic testing and hereditary conditions. GCs work in numerous subspecialties including but not limited to prenatal, cancer, neurology, cardiology, general pediatric/adult clinics, and research.