Female Providers in Urology: Treating Male Patients
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According to the American Association of Nurse Practitioners, Nurse practitioners are quickly becoming the health partner of choice for millions of Americans. As clinicians that blend clinical expertise in diagnosing and treating health conditions with an added emphasis on disease prevention and health management, NPs bring a comprehensive perspective and personal touch to health care.
Campbell County Medical Group’s nurse practitioner in Urology, Breanna Lien, reveals what attracted her to the specialty of Urology and why female providers treating male patients should become normalized.
“I feel comfortable talking about the uncomfortable,” said Breanna. She explained that talking about urological issues like erectile dysfunction, urinary incontinence and prostate issues can cause anxiety for a lot of men. She tries to make her patients feel as comfortable as possible by being personable, listening and asking questions about their concerns.
According to the Advanced Urology Institute, “Since a bigger proportion of patients in urology clinics are men, female nurse practitioners are mindful of this gender difference and try to turn it into a strength in their delivery of urologic care. For instance, while we recognize that a large number of male patients are more willing to speak to female NPs than male NPs about impotence and other urologic disorders — due to the fear of comparison with other men — we also understand that most male patients are embarrassed by their conditions and may find it difficult to speak openly about their problems. So we make sure that we express warmth, empathy, openness and interest in their problems in order to make them feel at ease and ready to discuss their issues.”
“Many men who are around the same age are struggling with the same thing and there is no reason to feel shame or be embarrassed,” said Breanna. “We are all human. Most conditions are treatable, but some men feel that it is a part of aging so they deal with it instead of seeking the treatment they need. I want to make Urology more talked about.”
Breanna currently sees men of all ages for all different urologic conditions. According to the American Cancer Society screening guidelines all men 50+ should have a yearly prostate exam. Men ages 20-40 years old should perform monthly self-testicular exams to screen for testicular cancer. If there is a lump or bump felt on a self-exam, an appointment should be scheduled with urology. Urologists and their professional staff are trained to specifically detect prostate and testicular cancer, which can be found in younger men. Breanna noted that men can see their primary care provider for a prostate exam if they prefer. The earlier cancer is detected, the better the outcome for treatment.
If you or someone you know is struggling with urinary concerns, reach out to Campbell County Medical Group Urology Clinic. Breanna Lien, APRN, is currently accepting new patients and sees both women and men.
To schedule an appointment with Breanna Lien, APRN, call CCMG Urology at 307-688-3636.