What are Nurse Practitioners (NPs) and how can they best support you?

Patients at the Penn FTD Center may receive care from a Nurse Practitioner (NP) in addition to their physician. NPs are registered nurses with advanced graduate training and clinical experience, bringing particular strengths in patient education, care coordination, and holistic, person-centered care. They are highly skilled in addressing complex symptom management, supporting caregivers, and helping patients and families navigate the complexities of the healthcare system. Penn FTD Center Co-Director Dr. Lauren Massimo notes her role is an opportunity to support patients and families. “I see my role as helping patients and families process a new diagnosis, bringing clarity and direction to what can feel uncertain, and navigating the day-to-day challenges of cognitive disorders with practical guidance.”

Like physicians, NPs engage in diagnostic evaluation, develop and manage treatment plans, and provide ongoing clinical care.  “A dementia diagnosis can often feel overwhelming, and symptoms and needs can change drastically throughout a person's disease course,” Penn FTD Center Nurse Practitioner Gillian Bradley states. “Our goal is to walk alongside our patients and their care partners throughout this journey to provide person-centered care and support.” Penn FTD Center NPs provide accessible and timely care offering guidance between physician visits, answering questions as they arise, and ensure continuity of care over time.

Below are several ways in which our NPs can support patients and families.

-            Guidance following a diagnosis, including care planning

-            Behavioral symptom management

-            Caregiver education and support

-            Coordination of care and navigation of the healthcare system

-            Ongoing management of symptoms and support as needs evolve

For all current patients interested in making an appointment with the Penn FTD Center NP, please contact 215-662-3361. For any individuals that are interested in making a new patient appointment, you can contact the Department of Neurology Clinical Care line at 215-662-3606. You can find details on the Penn FTD Center at our website linked here, or contact the team via email at PennFTDC@pennmedicine.upenn.edu.