On call 24-hours a day, nurse practitioners collaborate with each patient's primary care provider and an interdisciplinary team of physical therapists, occupational therapists, dieticians, social workers and case managers to provide effective and seamless care. With a focus on illness prevention and maintaining quality of life, nurse practitioners provide supportive services to manage pain; schedule diagnostic tests and therapies; educate patients about taking medications properly; and facilitate communication among all members of the health care team, including the patient and family. Home visits are ongoing until the patient's health improves and he or she can comfortably resume regular doctor's office visits.