Discussion #2
docx
keyboard_arrow_up
School
Temple University *
*We aren’t endorsed by this school
Course
2214
Subject
Medicine
Date
Dec 6, 2023
Type
docx
Pages
2
Uploaded by DeanStar26844
Option #1: The roles of MDs, DOs, NPs, and PAs. Discussion of Scope-of-Practice Laws.
Both a Doctor of Medicine (MD) and a Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (DO) have medical degrees and use methods of treatment, including pharmacological drugs and surgery, that are widely researched and accepted by the medical community. The main differences between MDs and DOs are differences in philosophy and treatment approach. MDs are trained in
allopathic medicine and primarily treat symptoms of disease with drugs and surgery. DOs are trained in an osteopathic approach to medicine, which emphasizes a whole-person approach to patient care. DOs take the emotional, social, and spiritual well-being of the patient into greater account when creating a treatment plan. Nurse Practitioners (NPs) are advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs). NPs diagnose and treat patients, and in some states, they are allowed to do so without a physician’s supervision. NPs mainly work in primary care. A Physician’s Assistant (PA) is a licensed healthcare professional who performs medical procedures under the supervision of a physician
. They mainly complete evaluations, monitor patients, perform diagnostic measures, and complete therapeutic and counseling treatments. Additionally, PAs can refer patients to secondary care. Scope-of-Practice laws outline what NPs can do without
the supervision of a physician. The Scope-of-Practice Law for NPs varies by state and significantly affects NPs’ ability to compensate for the nationwide physician shortage in the US. Pros of increasing NPs’ scope of practice is they can bridge gaps in access to healthcare in underserved and rural communities. Additionally, NPs provide cost effective and quality care; by increasing their scope-of-practice we can maximize on these highly trained healthcare professionals. Cons or considerations of increasing NPs’ scope of practice are some argue that physicians are better trained than NPs and therefore should always supervise NPs. Also, some call into question the safety of NP only care
and raise concerns about patient safety and quality of care.
Your preview ends here
Eager to read complete document? Join bartleby learn and gain access to the full version
- Access to all documents
- Unlimited textbook solutions
- 24/7 expert homework help