What’s the Difference Between a Medical Doctor and a Nurse Practitioner?

So, you made a doctor’s appointment — but you ended up seeing a nurse practitioner. What’s the difference between the two? And should you see one instead of the other?

It’s common for patients to see a nurse practitioner in a doctor’s office. Whether or not that makes a difference to the care you receive depends on both your medical needs and where you live.

A doctor attends medical school and completes a residency before receiving certification, a process that takes about 11 years of postsecondary education and training. A nurse practitioner completes six to eight years of postsecondary training: four years in nursing school and two to four years in a graduate nursing program.

In terms of care, the responsibilities of doctors and nurse practitioners overlap. Both diagnose patients and prescribe medications; however, there are some differences. For example, doctors can admit patients to the hospital, but nurse practitioners cannot.

The following chart covers the general differences between these two types of health care providers.

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