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Nurse practitioners (NP) are advanced practice registered nurses that manage acute and chronic medical conditions, both physical and mental, through history and physical exam and the ordering of diagnostic tests and medical treatments. NPs are qualified to diagnose medical problems, order treatments, perform advanced procedures, prescribe medications, and make referrals for a wide range of acute and chronic medical conditions within their scope of practice. Their education includes a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) or other undergraduate degree, and requires a license as a registered nurse (RN) and experience as an RN in a health care setting. They must graduate from an accredited graduate (MSN) or doctoral (DNP) program and achieve a board certification.

Physician assistants (PA) typically obtain medical histories, perform examinations and procedures, order treatments, diagnose diseases, prescribe medication, order and interpret diagnostic tests, refer patients to specialists as required, and first or second-assist in surgery. Their education includes a bachelor’s degree, extensive clinical training from an accredited PA program and they must obtain a license to practice as a physician assistant.