Who Will I See During My Visit?

When you’re feeling under the weather and can’t wait for an appointment with your primary care doctor, our experienced medical team can help you feel better. We focus on getting you in as quickly as possible, but we never rush care. Our friendly and knowledgeable providers take the time to listen, explain, and answer all of your questions.

Our team of providers at WellNow consists of a variety of different medical professionals, including MDs, DOs, PAs, and NPs. Want to know more? We put together this guide to help you better understand the different types of providers that you may see during a visit to WellNow.

MD or Doctor of Medicine

MD, or Doctor of Medicine, is one of the physician designations that identifies a physician who has completed medical school and the required additional training (residency and fellowship). MDs complete four years of medical school and at least three additional years of residency training. In addition, these providers may then continue their education to become certified as specialists in fields such as family medicine, emergency medicine, or orthopedics.

DO or Doctor of Osteopathy

DO, or Doctor of Osteopathy, is fully trained in all aspects of medicine, just like an MD, DOs receive additional training in structural medicine, and are certified as well to do mobilization and manipulation. Osteopathic doctors regard the body as an integrated whole, rather than treating for specific symptoms only. The education for DOs and MDs is similar and both are required to complete accredited medical residencies.

PA or Physician Assistant

PA, or Physician Assistant, is a health care professional licensed to practice medicine under the supervision of a physician. PAs typically conduct physical exams, diagnose and treat illnesses, order and interpret tests, perform suturing and wound care, diagnose and treat sprains/strains. PAs can also write prescriptions while being supervised by a physician (MD or DO). Within the Physician-PA relationship, physician assistants exercise autonomy in medical decision making and provide a broad range of diagnostic and therapeutic services.

NP or Nurse Practitioner

NP, or Nurse Practitioner, designates a Registered Nurse with advanced education and training, who practices in all specialty areas. Due to their advanced experience and dedication, NPs are able to perform functions beyond a Registered Nurse such as prescribing medication under the supervision of an MD, ordering diagnostic testing, and providing diagnoses for acute and chronic conditions. Additionally, NPs have clinical training that exceeds that necessary to become a Registered Nurse. While not required, many nurse practitioners also go on to specialize in a certain field, including geriatrics, orthopedics, or pediatrics. NPs must have a minimum of a Master’s Degree in Nursing and National Certification to practice.

Between family, work and an ever-growing to-do list, you have enough on your plate. When immediate illnesses and injuries arise, it’s not always possible or convenient to make a doctor’s appointment. And, often it’s not serious enough for the ER. That’s why we’re here. Our goal is to “care from the heart” and bring peace of mind to the communities we serve. So the next time a health concern has you wondering “Is it serious?” or “Should I have someone look at this?” – stop by.