Should I see a DO, MD, PA, or NP?
In healthcare, understanding the different types of providers and their qualifications can help you make more informed decisions about your care. While doctors, nurse practitioners, and physician assistants share some responsibilities, they also have distinct differences that may influence which is best for your family’s needs.
To help you compare, review the chart below for an overview on the requirements and credentials for each position.
Family Medicine, Internal Medicine, and Pediatrics
DO: Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine – DOs use the same medical techniques as MDs but place a stronger emphasis on holistic health and preventive care, considering the whole person—mind, body, and emotions—in their treatment approach. DOs have all of the same responsibilities and rights as an MD, with an additional 200 hours of training in osteopathic manipulative treatment. Some DOs may take a holistic approach to medicine, but not all of them will.
MD: Doctor of Medicine – MDs practice conventional or biomedicine forms of medicine and are licensed to treat symptoms and diseases, as well as perform specialty surgeries. MDs are trained experts for youth, adult, and geriatric care across the spectrum.
NP: Nurse Practitioner – Nurse practitioners treat the whole person and guide each patient to make smart health and lifestyle choices. NPs have a nursing type training that is based on diagnosis and treatment of patients, as well as a focus on psychosocial support and counseling.
PA: Physician Associate – Physician associates (also called physician assistants) have extensive medical training to diagnose illness, develop and manage treatment plans, prescribe medications, and serve as a patient’s primary healthcare provider. They see patients on their own just like a doctor or nurse practitioner does but must be under the general supervision of a doctor.
| Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (DO) | Medical Doctor (MD) | Nurse Practitioner (NP) | Physician Associate (PA) | |
| Education/Degree | Bachelor’s Degree and Doctor of Osteopathy + 200 hours of training in osteopathic manipulative treatment (OMT) | Bachelor’s Degree and Doctor of Medicine (MD) | Bachelor’s and Master’s Degree in Nursing: Nurse Practitioner License | Bachelor’s and Master’s Degree in Physician Associate; Physician Associate-Certified (PA-C) |
| Total Post High School Education | 8 years | 8 years | 6-8 years | 6-7 years |
| Residency | 3-9 years | 3-8 years | None | Optional 1-2 years |
| Recertification | Annual board certification maintenance required | Annual board certification maintenance required | 1000 professional practice hours and 12 continued education credits annually OR exam every 5 years | 100 education hours every 2 years and exam every 10 years |
| Supervision | Independent | Independent | Independent | Must be supervised by an MD/DO |
| Prescribe Medications | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes, when supervised and delegated by a physician |
| Perform Physical Exams | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Order and Interpret Tests | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Perform Surgeries | Yes | Yes | Assist | Assist |
| Deliver Babies | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Diagnose and Treat Illness | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Best for who? | Everyone | Everyone | Everyone | Everyone |
Understanding these differences can help you make an informed decision when selecting a healthcare provider. To learn more about our NOAH providers, visit our provider care team page and find the provider with the credentials that best meet your needs. If you’re still unsure about which type of provider is right for you, don’t worry—just request an appointment, and we’ll work together to ensure you connect with the provider who best meets your needs.
