Providing Clarity: What Each Title Means in Healthcare

By Saint Francis Health System Staff

Language in health care is always evolving. Over the years, one word has become more common in medical offices, insurance forms, and online content like this article: provider. 

You’ve probably seen it, heard it or used it yourself.

While this is an effective shorthand for settings like an online search, it may be confusing for patients wanting clarity on their medical team’s roles and qualifications. 

Below is an overview of common medical titles, their acronyms and required training.

Physicians & Doctoral Level

Doctor of Medicine (MD) and Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (DO)

• 4-year bachelor’s degree
• 4 years of medical school
• 3-7 years of residency training

Dentist (DDS) and Dental Surgeon (DMD)

• 4-year bachelor’s degree
• 4 years of dental school
• Optional 1-4 years of specialty training

Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT)

• 4-year bachelor’s degree
• 3-year professional DPT program

Doctor of Pharmacy (PharmD)

• 4-year bachelor’s degree
• 3-4 years professional pharmacy school

Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)

• 4-year bachelor’s degree
• 4-6 years graduate study focusing on research

Advanced Practice & Specialized Roles

Nurse Practitioner (NP) or Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN)

• 2-year associate degree (ADN) OR 4-year Bachelor of Science in nursing (BSN)
• 4-year Master of Science, Nursing (MSN) or Doctoral Nurse Practitioner (DNP)
• Up to 8 years of school, total

Physician Assistant (PA)

• 4-year bachelor’s degree
• 3-year master’s PA program

Certified Nurse Midwife (CNM)

• 2-year associate degree (ADN) OR 4-year Bachelor of Science in nursing (BSN)
• 4-year Master of Science, Nursing (MSN) or Doctoral Nurse Practitioner (DNP)—specialized in midwifery

Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist

• 2-year associate degree (ADN) OR 4-year Bachelor of Science in nursing (BSN)
• 4-year Master of Science, Nursing (MSN) or Doctoral Nurse Practitioner (DNP)—specialized in anesthesia
• Up to 8 years of school, total

Nursing & Technicians

Registered Nurse (RN)

• 2-year associate degree (ADN) OR 4-year Bachelor of Science in nursing (BSN)

Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN)

• 1-year—15-month diploma program

Medical Assistant (MA)

• 2-year associate degree or 4–12-month certificate program

Radiology Technician (RT)

• 2-year associate of applied science, compliant with American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (AART)

Expert, Compassionate Care for Everyone

As you and your loved ones’ health changes with each life stage, Saint Francis providers are here for you. The best healthcare is a team effort between physicians, specialists, nurses and healthcare staff, with you (the patient) at the center. 

You can rest assured that every person on your Saint Francis team is highly qualified and committed to a collaborative, patient first approach.