I have scheduled my first prenatal visit since I am two-months pregnant. One of my friends referred me to one of her doctors. I have been told by my friend that the first visit is the most important, and the longest of the series of visits throughout the pregnancy.
My understanding is that I am supposed to see my doctor so he or she can answer my questions and concerns. The appointment I make is supposed to be with that specific OB/GYN doctor.
However, my doctor was not available at the time of my scheduled appointment. The nurse told me that she had an operation to participate in. Instead, the doctor's office suggested that I should see the nurse practitioner instead of my doctor.
The office also says that right now I can not choose any specific doctor for my visit. There is a team of doctors and nurses working together, so they actually don't know who I can meet each time I visit because my doctor maybe not available then. But there will be one available to take care me. Is these standard procedure in US? How can we be confident about the doctors since I have no single point of contact? Any one have any experience like this?
I come from another country. In my country, there is a one doctor who is with you for all the steps from beginning to delivery. Is that valid here?
I am not sure that I misunderstood anything. Can any one help me explain what it supposed to be a usual process? Can a nurse practitioner replace an OB/GYN doctor?
Addition Information: I am in PA. The hospital that I went to is about 300 beds.