Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Nurse Practitioner?
A nurse practitioner (NP) is a registered nurse with advanced academic and clinical experience, which enables them to diagnose and manage most common and many chronic illnesses, either independently or as part of a health care team. A nurse practitioner provides some care previously offered only by physicians and in most states has the ability to prescribe medications. Working in collaboration with a physician, a nurse practitioner provides high quality, cost-effective, and individualized care for the lifespan of patient's special needs.What is a Physician Assistant?
Physician assistants (PA’s) are licensed health professionals who practice medicine as members of a team with their supervising physicians. PA’s deliver a broad range of medical and surgical services to diverse populations in rural and urban settings. PA’s conduct physical exams, diagnose and treat illnesses, order and interpret tests, counsel on preventive health care, assist in surgery, and prescribe medications.What's the difference between a PA and a physician?
Physician assistants are educated in the "medical model"; in some schools they attend many of the same classes as medical students. One of the main differences between PA education and physician education is not the core content of the curriculum, but the amount of time spent in formal educational. In addition to time in school, physicians are required to do an internship, and the majority also completes a residency in a specialty following that. PA’s do not have to undertake an internship or residency. A physician has complete responsibility for the care of the patient. PA’s share that responsibility with the supervising physicians.What is the difference between NP’s and PA’s?
While NP’s and PA’s often perform similar functions, there are important distinctions between these healthcare professionals. PA’s always work under the supervision of a physician. They must meet the entrance requirements of a PA program, but that does not necessarily include a background in medicine or nursing. In contrast, NP’s may work independently or in collaboration with a physician and must have an RN license before being accepted into an NP educational program.What functions do NP’s and PA’s typically perform?
NP’s and PA’s provide primary and some acute care, and are qualified to meet the majority of patients’ health care needs. The role of the NP or PA is all encompassing. For example, they take medical histories and perform physical exams; diagnose acute problems such as infections and fractures as well as chronic problems such as asthma and hypertension; provide routine care such as prenatal, well-child and preventive and other treatments; and provide education and support healthy lifestyle behavior.Where do NP’s and PA’s practice?
The majority of NP’s and PA’s practice in a primary care setting in both urban and rural areas. In addition, they practice in a variety of specialty areas and settings where health care services are provided for individuals and groups. These include but are not limited to:- Private Offices
- Walk-in clinics
- Community Clinics
- Health Departments
- School/College Clinics
- Hospitals
- Home Health Care Agencies
- Long-term Care Facilities
- Health Maintenance Organizations
- Military
- Prisons and Correctional Institutions
- Psychiatric Facilities
How is a Nurse Practitioner educated?
Nurse practitioners are educated through programs that grant either a certificate or a master's degree. A registered nurse is recommended to have extensive clinical experience before applying to a nurse practitioner program. An intensive preceptorship under the direct supervision of a physician or an experienced nurse practitioner, as well as instruction in nursing theory, are key components to most NP programs.How is a Physician Assistant educated?
Physician assistants are educated in intensive medical programs accredited by the Accreditation Review Commission on Education for the Physician Assistant (ARC-PA). The average PA program curriculum runs approximately 26 months. There are currently more than 130 accredited programs. All PA programs must meet the same ARC-PA standards.Can Nurse Practitioners prescribe medications?
Nurse practitioners can prescribe in 49 states without any physician countersignature needed. The average NP writes 16-18 prescriptions daily.Can Physician Assistants prescribe medications?
Physician assistants can prescribe in 49 states without any physician countersignature needed. The average PA writes 18-20 prescriptions daily.
