Nurse Practitioner vs. Doctor: What’s the Difference?
What is a nurse practitioner vs. doctor responsible for in healthcare? These two careers may appear similar, especially considering the increasing need for nurse practitioners (NPs) that’s partially in response to the physician shortage.
Whether you’re figuring out which career path to pursue or which healthcare provider to choose, our explanation of the nurse practitioner vs. doctor debate will help bring some much needed clarity on this topic. We’ll discuss what they do, where they work, the education requirements for each role, and more.
NP vs. Doctor: Job Description
Although there’s considerable overlap between the responsibilities of a nurse practitioner and physician, there are some key differences. One of the most important aspects to understand is how their scopes of practice compare.
What Does an NP Do?
The NP scope of practice includes:
- Diagnose and treat conditions
- Order lab work and diagnostic tests
- Write prescriptions (supervision sometimes required)
- Serve as a primary care provider
What Does a Doctor Do?
The medical doctor scope of practice includes:
- Diagnose and treat conditions
- Order lab work and diagnostic tests
- Write prescriptions
- Serve as a primary care provider
- Perform surgery (in some specialties)
What Can a Doctor Do That a Nurse Practitioner Cannot?
Unlike NPs, doctors are always able to prescribe medication. Although many NPs can prescribe medications, some may have to do so under the oversight of a physician.
Additionally, some specialized doctors can perform surgical procedures without oversight. NPs may help manage preoperative and post-operative care and assist with surgeries, but do not lead surgical procedures. Although complex surgery isn’t a part of an NP’s scope of practice, they can perform some invasive procedures such as IUD insertion and intubation.
An NP’s scope of practice is broken down into three categories of practice authority, which depends on the state where they work: full-practice, reduced-practice, and restricted-practice authority. Depending on their state, they may be able to work independently or in a more limited capacity under the supervision of a physician.
NP vs. Doctor: Philosophies
Medical doctors are trained to focus on diseases and how to cure them. On the other hand, NPs are taught a more holistic approach to healing that incorporates addressing the patient’s body, mind, and home environment. In other words, physicians focus on the disease itself while NPs focus on the disease and its overall impact.
NP vs. Doctor: Education Requirements
Nurse practitioners must first obtain their BSN, followed by their master’s of science in nursing (MSN) or doctorate of nursing practice (DNP). Ideally, NPs will gain hands-on experience as a registered nurse in between obtaining their bachelor’s and master’s. Finally, they must pass the national NP certification exam in their chosen specialty.
Doctors must first earn a bachelor’s degree. Although their bachelor’s degrees don’t have to be in the sciences, scientific degrees can better prepare them for medical school down the line. After that, they must complete medical school, followed by an internship and residency.
Both groups can choose from a variety of specialties. Examples of physician specialties include:
- Neurology
- Ophthalmology
- Pediatrics
- Urology
- Anesthesiology
Examples of NP specialties include:
NP vs. Doctor: How Long Does It Take to Become Licensed?
Both career paths require extended study, but it takes more time to become a doctor. Depending on their specific path, it takes approximately six years to become a nurse practitioner. To become a physician, it takes around 12 years.
NP vs. Doctor: Where Can They Work?
Generally, you can find NPs and physicians working in the same spaces. Some examples include hospitals, urgent care centers, and clinics.
NP vs. Doctor: Salary and Job Outlook
Physician employment is expected to grow by 3% over the next decade, which is the average for all other occupations in the country. The average annual salary for a physician is $248,640 per year. The highest-paying state for physicians is Montana. The other highest-paying states for physicians include:
- North Dakota
- Wyoming
- South Carolina
- Indiana
Work opportunities for NPs are expected to increase by 45% over the next decade, which is much faster than the national average of 3%. The average annual salary for nurse practitioners is $128,490. These wages can vary based on their location, years of experience, and the specific facility in which they work. The highest-paying state for nurse practitioners is California. Other states with high annual salaries for nurse practitioners are:
Nurse Practitioner vs. Doctor: What’s Your Preference?
Now that you know the difference between these two roles, you can make an informed decision. Work alongside these professionals in a setting that fits your goals when you find nursing opportunities tailored to you on IntelyCare.