Which professionals are considered mid-level providers?

Mid-level providers are healthcare professionals who are trained and licensed to provide a range of medical services, typically falling between the roles of physicians and non-licensed personnel. Nurse Practitioners (NPs) and Physician Assistants (PAs) both have advanced education and clinical training that allows them to perform many functions similar to those of physicians, such as diagnosing and treating illnesses, prescribing medications, and managing patient care.

Nurse Practitioners often hold a master's or doctoral degree in nursing and can work independently or collaboratively with physicians, depending on state regulations. Physician Assistants similarly complete a master's degree program and can also perform various medical tasks under a physician's supervision or collaboratively.

In contrast, the other professions listed do not fit the mid-level provider category. Medical Doctors (MDs) and Doctors of Osteopathic Medicine (DOs) are fully licensed physicians, while pharmacists and social workers, as well as physical and occupational therapists, have distinct roles and training that do not align with the mid-level provider designation.