Understanding Healthcare Professionals Credentials
Have you ever looked at the acronyms for a medical professional’s certifications and thought “what does that mean?” You aren't alone! These abbreviations may seem like a jumble of letters, but they hold valuable insights into the expertise and training of the individuals who bear them. Let's unravel the meanings behind some common acronyms found in the medical field.
DO - Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine
DOs are fully licensed physicians who have attended osteopathic medical schools. They receive training similar to MDs but have additional education in osteopathic manipulative treatment (OMT), a hands-on approach to diagnosing, treating, and preventing illness or injury.
DPM - Doctor of Podiatric Medicine
DPMs specialize in the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of disorders related to the foot, ankle, and lower extremities. They undergo rigorous training in podiatric medicine and surgery, addressing conditions ranging from foot deformities to sports injuries.
MD - Doctor of Medicine
MDs are allopathic physicians who have completed medical school and obtained a Doctor of Medicine degree. They diagnose and treat illnesses, prescribe medications, perform surgeries, and provide comprehensive medical care across various specialties.
FAAFP - Fellow of the American Academy of Family Physicians
This designation signifies membership in the American Academy of Family Physicians and denotes a physician who has completed additional training and demonstrated excellence in family medicine. Fellows of the academy are committed to delivering high-quality, patient-centered primary care.
DABOM - Diplomate of the American Board of Obesity Medicine
DABOMs are physicians who have achieved certification from the American Board of Obesity Medicine. They specialize in the comprehensive management of obesity, offering expertise in weight loss strategies, nutrition, exercise, behavior modification, and medical treatments.
DNP - Doctor of Nursing Practice
DNPs are advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs) with terminal degrees in nursing practice. They focus on improving patient outcomes through evidence-based practice, leadership, and the application of clinical expertise. DNPs may work in direct patient care, healthcare administration, or education.
FNP-C - Family Nurse Practitioner, Certified
FNPs are advanced practice registered nurses specializing in family medicine. The "C" designation indicates certification through a national certifying body such as the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners Certification Board (AANPCB) or the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC).
FNP-BC - Family Nurse Practitioner, Board Certified
Similar to FNP-C, FNPs with the "BC" designation are board certified by organizations like the ANCC. Certification demonstrates proficiency in providing primary healthcare services to individuals and families across the lifespan.
The ANCC (American Nurses Credentialing Center) is a subsidiary of the American Nurses Association (ANA) that offers certification programs for nurses across various specialties. Certification through the ANCC signifies expertise and competence in a specific area of nursing practice.
MSN - Master of Science in Nursing
MSN is a graduate-level academic degree for registered nurses seeking advanced practice roles or leadership positions in nursing. It provides specialized knowledge and skills in areas such as nursing education, administration, informatics, and advanced clinical practice.
BSN - Bachelor of Science in Nursing
BSN is an undergraduate degree in nursing that prepares students for entry-level nursing practice. Graduates of BSN programs are equipped with the foundational knowledge and skills needed to deliver safe and competent patient care.
It is always important to have confidence in a medical team who supports you. If you are working toward better health, our team at Healthstar Physicians Premier Medical wants to be on your team. Our team includes each of these roles that were outlined today. We provide osteopathic medicine as well as family medicine, obesity medicine and podiatry. We are taking new patients at our two offices in Newport and our Sevierville office. And we accept most forms of insurance. To make an appointment in one of our Newport offices or our Sevierville office, please contact us.
