A Physician Assistant (PA) is a licensed health professional who practices medicine under the supervision of a physician. PA’s undergo intensive education enabling them to provide primary and specialty care ranging from interviews and physical exams to diagnostic tests, procedures, and prescribing medical treatments. The PA becomes certified after passing a national board examination.
A Nurse Practitioner (NP) is a registered nurse (RN) who has completed advanced education (a minimum of a master’s degree) and training in the diagnosis and management of common medical conditions, including chronic illnesses. Nurse practitioners provide a broad range of health care services. They provide some of the same care provided by physicians and maintain close working relationships with physicians. A NP can serve as a patient’s regular health care provider. Nurse practitioners see patients of all ages.