When you go to the hospital, you may be confused by the wide variety of different titles that are used for physicians. Most of the people think that Doctor and Physician are the same and they may perform the treatment. But in actual, there is some difference between doctor and physician which we discuss here.
Physician vs Doctor
A physician is a medical doctor, who done either an M.D. or D.O., and he or she completed graduate training to provide health care. A physician may be referred to as a doctor. And whereas not all doctors are physicians. The physician is who patients consult whenever they feel something is wrong about their bodies.
They also have the authority to determine the urgency of follow-up checkups and appointments and prescribe medications and treatments.
But when a physician is continuing their studies for a two- to five-year specialization or residency. They complete a study of specific fields of medicine. Doctors completed some additional internship experience is needed whenever they choose to work under their specialization. And then exams and certifications are also prerequisites depending on the state.
Doctors and physicians can be differentiated in their methods of treating patients also. Physicians use medications to treat their patients, whereas the Doctor performs some surgery and more comprehensive medical procedures.
Who is a Doctor?
Doctor is an academic title derived from the same spelling and meaning in the Latin word. A doctor is someone who by practice medicine preserves or restores human health. He or she is faced with the task of diagnosing and treating human illness, illnesses, accidents, pain, etc. It is achieved by listening to the patient, understanding the problem and then using their medical knowledge to consider how best to handle the ailment or concern.
Who is a Physician?
Physician only who has earned a medical Doctorate certified to diagnose patients, offer care and treatment for illnesses and also injuries, and prescribe necessary medication. Physicians are highly trained in their field. Physicians deal aspect or function of the body. There are many types of physicians include:
- Surgeon
- Primary care physicians
- Dermatologist
- Paediatrician
The physician treats health condition such as foot problems, digestive issues, or even for plastic surgery.
The main difference between doctor and physician is that not all doctors are physicians, but all physicians are doctors. A physician assistant is a medical professional who operates under a doctor’s supervision. A doctor works autonomously, whereas a PA always works in conjunction with a doctor.
What is best for you: Physician Care or Doctor Care?
The main difference is that a Physician is not as qualified as a doctor. However, research shows if your ailment is not life-threatening, then (Physician Assistant) Physician can offer the same level of care and treatment you would receive from your doctor. While I do not have certificates of doctorates, but they are highly educated and trained. The Patient can quickly get an appointment with a PA as compared to a doctor. If there is no need for surgery, the Physician can provide quality care at the same level as a doctor. Doctors are more specialized in particular areas of medicine.
![Home Renovation Guide [2025]](/app/uploads/2021/04/design-hacks-1-378x300.jpg)
