What’s the Difference Between a Healthcare Provider and a Doctor?

When you visit a Howard Brown Health clinic for a medical appointment, you’ll be seen by a healthcare provider. But what does the word “provider” really mean? A provider is a general term that encompasses a wide range of education levels, skillsets, and specializations. Who you see depends on your specific needs and which clinic you go to. Your provider could be a Physician Assistant (PA), a Nurse Practitioner (NP), a Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS), a Doctor of Medicine (MD), or a Doctor of Osteopathy (DO), just to name a few. This is by no means an exhaustive list. There are many of different kinds of healthcare providers.

Make an appointment with one of our healthcare providers today! Call 773.388.1600 to speak to a Patient Services Representation.

Whoever you see during your visit, each healthcare provider is there to meet your specific needs as a patient. The main thing all our healthcare providers have in common is that they work together to provide you with the highest level of care possible.

You can find out more about Howard Brown’s healthcare providers at howardbrown.org/find-a-provider/