Choosing the Right Healthcare Professional: MD, DO, PA, NP

Take a glance at the ID badges on the white coats or scrubs of UNC Health Appalachian staff, and you’ll spot a variety of credentials: MD, DO, PA, NP. These acronyms might seem like a jumble of letters, but they represent distinct healthcare paths and unique roles within the healthcare system. Comparing healthcare professionals such as Medical Doctors (MD), Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (DO), Physician Assistants (PA), and Nurse Practitioners (NP) involves understanding their education, scope of practice, and training. Let’s take a closer look at what sets them apart.

Doctor of Medicine (MD)

Starting off with MDs – these healthcare professionals complete rigorous academic paths, earning a bachelor’s degree, followed by four years of medical school. After that, they undergo specialized training during their residency, where they focus on areas like surgery, pediatrics, obstetrics, internal medicine, etc. MDs often take a more allopathic, or conventional medicine, approach to treat illnesses.

Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (DO)

DOs share similarities with MDs, but they bring a unique perspective to healthcare. While they also complete medical school and residency, DOs emphasize osteopathic, or holistic, care – considering the relationship between the mind, body, and spirit in their diagnosis and treatment.

“Osteopathic physicians account for 11% of physicians in the United States today and practice in all medical specialties ranging from primary care to surgery,” says Dr. Molly Haas. “DOs receive the same training as allopathic physicians in medical school regarding anatomy and physiology, pathophysiology, pharmacology, histology and management of disease processes. The teachings in osteopathic medical schools focus on the body functioning as a system capable of healing itself when in proper alignment. There is also an emphasis on preventative care and promoting the health of the mind, body, and spirit.”

The bottom line? Both MDs and DOs are licensed physicians dedicated to providing comprehensive and effective medical care. They have similar schooling, can prescribe medication, and can practice in a wide range of healthcare settings, ranging from hospitals to clinics.

Physician Assistant (PA)

PAs are highly trained medical professionals who work in collaboration with MDs and DOs. They typically hold a master’s degree in physician assistant studies and undergo clinical training. PAs can diagnose illnesses, develop treatment plans, and prescribe medication under the supervision of an MD or DO. They’re skilled medical problem solvers, offering comprehensive care with a collaborative approach.

Nurse Practitioner (NP)

NPs bring a nursing background to the healthcare table. They hold advanced degrees, often at the master’s or doctorate level in nursing. They are nationally certified and state-licensed to diagnose, prescribe medications, and manage a variety of health conditions. Like PAs, NPs practice in collaboration with and under the supervision of a physician.

NPs can also become board-certified in specialty areas, some of which include:

• FNP: Family Nurse Practitioner
• AG-ACNP: Adult-Gerontology Nurse Practitioner
• ACNP: Acute Care Nurse Practitioner
• PNP: Pediatric Nurse Practitioner

Comparing Healthcare Professionals

Comparing healthcare professionals such as Medical Doctors (MD), Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (DO), Physician Assistants (PA), and Nurse Practitioners (NP) involves understanding their education, scope of practice, and training. Whether you're in the hands of an MD, DO, PA or NP, rest assured that you're receiving  care from highly trained professionals who are committed to your wellbeing. 

How do you choose which healthcare professional is right for you?

Each of these healthcare professionals play a vital role in our well-being. It’s not about choosing one over the other; it’s about understanding their unique contributions and how they work together to provide comprehensive care. When you seek medical attention, you may encounter the expertise of an MD, the holistic approach of a DO, the collaborative care of a PA, or the patient-centered focus of an NP. They form a healthcare team that’s dedicated to your health and happiness.

So, whether you’re in the hands of an MD, DO, PA, or NP, rest assured that you’re receiving care from highly trained professionals who are committed to your well-being.