Mount Nittany Health is pleased to announce that Shannon Marker, CRNP, Mount Nittany Health Nephrology, is a Certified Hypertension Clinician with the American Hypertension Specialist Certification Program (AHSCP).

Hypertension (high blood pressure) can constrict and narrow the blood vessels, damaging vessels throughout the body, including those in the kidneys. Damage to the kidneys’ blood vessels may result in the inability to remove waste and extra fluid from the body, which in turn, can raise blood pressure and create a vicious cycle that may lead to kidney failure.

As a provider in nephrology, Marker has dedicated her time and expertise to helping patients prevent, diagnose, and treat kidney disease and other conditions that may damage the kidneys. Receiving this certification is just another way that Marker brings quality, comprehensive care to her patients.

“By obtaining my certification as a hypertension clinician, my goal is to provide improved hypertension care to our community and reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease and stroke,” said Marker.

Marker is currently accepting new patients in nephrology. To request an appointment, call 814.689.3140. Nephrology appointments may also be requested at mountnittany.org/nephrology.

Current patients can schedule an appointment online at MyMountNittanyHealth.com.

The Certified Hypertension Clinician Program was launched in 2015 to identify and recognize Nurse Practitioners, Nurse Specialists, Physician Assistants, Pharmacists, and Primary Care Physicians with expert skills and knowledge in the management of clinical hypertension. Through showing mastery of a defined body of knowledge in clinical hypertension, this certification provides recognition of the expertise of these healthcare clinicians and demonstrates their commitment to the highest standards of hypertension patient care.