What are the types of Non-Physician Practitioners (NPP)?

The correct answer is that a Physician Assistant (PA) is categorized as a Non-Physician Practitioner (NPP). NPPs are healthcare providers who are not physicians but can perform many of the same tasks under the supervision of a doctor. PAs are specifically trained to evaluate patients, diagnose conditions, interpret diagnostic tests, and initiate treatment plans, making them integral members of the healthcare team. They hold advanced degrees and produce significant patient care in various settings, including hospitals and outpatient clinics.

While a Registered Nurse, Certified Nurse Midwife, and Medical Assistant play essential roles in healthcare, they do not fit the typical definition of Non-Physician Practitioners in the same way. Registered Nurses provide care but do not have the same level of autonomy in clinical decision-making as PAs. Certified Nurse Midwives focus on maternal and child health, though they can also be considered NPPs, their primary role is different. Medical Assistants perform administrative and clinical tasks but generally have less training and responsibility compared to PAs. Hence, the distinction lies in the level of training, autonomy, and role in clinical decision-making provided by these practitioners.