Flathead Orthopedics Physician Assistants and Nurse Practitioners

Physician Assistants (PAs)

Physician Assistants are health care professionals licensed to practice medicine with physician supervision. As part of their comprehensive responsibilities, PAs conduct physical exams, diagnose and treat illnesses, order and interpret tests, counsel on preventive health care, assist in surgery, and, in Montana, can write prescriptions. Within the physician-PA relationship, physician assistants exercise autonomy in medical decision making and provide a broad range of diagnostic and therapeutic services.

Nurse Practitioners (NPs)

Nurse Practitioners are advanced practice nurses who provide high-quality healthcare services similar to those of a physician. Like a physician, NPs are qualified to diagnose and treat a wide range of health problems. Throughout their practice, they maintain close working relationships with physicians. A Nurse Practitioner has completed advanced education, including a Master’s Degree and sometimes a Doctorate as well as training in the diagnosis and management of common medical conditions, including chronic illnesses. Besides clinical care, NPs focus on health promotion, disease prevention, health education and counseling.