MD, DO, PA, and NP: Choosing a Provider

The providers at Allegro Pediatrics are trained and licensed to practice medicine in the state of Washington. All provide excellent general pediatric care to our patients. We hire a variety of providers in order to meet the needs of all of our patients and provide a diverse set of physicians (MD/DO), physician assistants (PA), and nurse practitioners (NP).

All of our providers can treat and diagnose illnesses, as well as see patients for Well Child Check-ups. They can all prescribe medication and fill out forms.

Defining the roles

MD

An MD is a doctor of medicine. The MDs at Allegro Pediatrics also have the FAAP designation, which means Fellow of the American Academy of Pediatrics. Our pediatricians specialize in the physical, mental, and social health of children and teens. They focus on the diagnosis and treatment of diseases, as well as preventative care.

DO

A DO is a doctor of osteopathic medicine. The DOs at Allegro Pediatrics also have the FAAP designation (Fellow of the American Academy of Pediatrics) and attend the same pediatric residency training programs as our MDs. DOs take a more holistic approach to medicine. In general, they treat the body as a whole, rather than treating specific symptoms.

PA

A Physician Assistant is a certified, licensed provider who has completed a master’s degree, which includes classroom instruction and clinical rotations. PAs are trained to diagnose and treat patients, as well as focus on disease prevention and health management. Our PAs have a focus on primary care pediatrics. PAs are licensed to prescribe medications.

NP

A Nurse Practitioner is a registered nurse who has received additional, specialized education and clinical training in order to see patients independently. NPs earn a master’s degree and/or complete a doctoral (PhD) program or a doctor of nursing practice (DNP) program. NPs are licensed to examine, diagnose, and provide treatment to patients, from disease prevention and health management to acute care.