Nurse practitioners are advanced practice registered nurses who have additional education and training in a specialized area of healthcare. They can provide a wide range of primary and specialty healthcare services, including diagnosing and treating illnesses, prescribing medications, and managing chronic conditions. Nurse practitioners work in a variety of healthcare settings, such as hospitals, clinics, and private practices, and play a crucial role in improving access to quality healthcare for patients. They often work collaboratively with physicians and other healthcare professionals to provide comprehensive and patient-centered care.