Specialist Physicians
Specialist physicians are doctors who have completed further education and training in a specific field of medicine. In addition to medical school, specialist physicians may complete an additional three years of schooling including a residency in their field. There are dozens of specialties. Examples of specialist physicians include surgeons, pediatricians, geriatricians, psychiatrists, neurologists, radiologists, gynecologists, oncologists, cardiologists and many more. The Niagara Region has approximately 600 specialist physicians.
Nurse Practitioners
Nurse practitioners provide a range of personalized, specialty health care services in settings including hospitals and clinics throughout Ontario. Nurse practitioners have advanced university education and work closely with doctors, nurses and other health care professionals, including social workers, midwives, mental health professionals and pharmacists. There are approximately 30 nurse practitioners working in the Niagara Region.
Physician Assistants
Physician Assistants (PA) are advanced practice health care provider. They educate and counsel patients and work under the supervision of a physician. PAs perform physicals, order and interpret investigations, diagnose, and create treatment plans. They also perform diagnostic and therapeutic procedures, reduce fracture, cast and splint, perform biopsies, and assist in surgeries.
Midwives
Midwives are health care professionals specially trained to provide primary care services to pregnant people and newborn children. Midwives specialize in low-risk pregnancies and births. Midwives often work in small teams, and deliver care to patients throughout pregnancy, labour, birth and for the first six weeks after birth, ensuring a continuity of care. Midwives consult and work with physicians to treat any complications or concerns, and may transfer a patient’s care to a physician. If care is transferred, midwives continue to support their patients, and resume primary care if and when possible. There are about 30 midwives providing services to people in the Niagara Region.
Become a Member
Membership is free, and connects you with a variety of resources and networking opportunities with other practitioners in Niagara.
