Medical degrees explained: MD, DO, NP, PA

Navigating the world of healthcare acronyms such as MD, DO, NP, and PA can feel overwhelming. At Rezilient Health, we believe that understanding who’s delivering your care helps you feel confident and engaged. Whether you’re meeting with a Provider on your screen (our MDs, DOs, NPs, or PAs) or working with a Medic in our CloudClinic, each role plays a vital part in delivering personalized, effective care.

‍What do these credentials mean?

‍MD - Medical Doctor

An MD (Doctor of Medicine) completes a four-year undergraduate degree and four years of allopathic medical school, followed by 3-7 years of residency and optional fellowship training. MDs can diagnose, treat, prescribe medications, manage chronic conditions, and perform surgery when trained.

‍DO - Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine

A DO holds a degree similar to an MD and follows equivalent training: four years of medical school and 3-7 years of residency. DOs are also dedicated to holistic care and receive extra training in osteopathic manipulative treatment (OMT), which is a hands-on technique that helps diagnose and treat musculoskeletal conditions. In practice, MDs and DOs have virtually identical capabilities and scope across specialties. 

‍NP - Nurse Practitioner

NPs (Nurse Practitioners) are advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs) who earn either a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) or a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP), after completing BSN and RN licensure. They can diagnose illnesses, prescribe medications, order and interpret tests, and often serve as primary care providers. NPs often practice with greater autonomy (independent practice allowed in many states), especially compared to PAs.

‍PA - Physician Assistant

PAs complete a graduate-level program with extensive clinical training, modeled closely after physician education. They can diagnose, prescribe, develop treatment plans, and manage a wide range of patient needs.

‍

‍

Why it matters to you (our patients at Rezilient)

‍Comprehensive, flexible access

When you walk into a CloudClinic, your care is supported by a team – not just one person. 

‍Medics

You’ll first meet one of our highly trained medics, many with years of paramedic and emergency medical experience. They’ll welcome you, take vitals, help you get comfortable with the technology, and act as the provider’s hands during your appointment.

Providers (MDs, DOs, NPs, PAs)

On screen, you’ll connect with a skilled provider who will listen, diagnose, and guide your treatment. 

Specialty care

In addition to primary and urgent care, Rezilient also offers programs with specialized professionals, should your employer choose to include it in the health plan. 

• A Registered Dietitian (RD) to support your weight loss journey through expert nutrition guidance. 
• A Doctor of Physical Therapy (PT, DPT) to help with musculoskeletal health, recovery, and long-term movement goals.

Takeaway for patients

• MDs and DOs are fully licensed physicians. DOs bring holistic techniques to their high-level training.
• NPs are advanced, often independent clinicians who are accessible and focused on patient-centered care.
• PAs are highly trained medical professionals providing collaborative, physician-guided care.

At Rezilient Health, we’re proud to offer this collaborative model where experienced medics initiate your care journey, providers bring the clinical expertise tailored to your needs, and your care team is aligned to support seamless, accessible care.

‍