Who is on your Healthcare team?

By Christopher Brown, MD

Teams play a crucial role in various aspects of life. While self-sufficiency is highly regarded in America, the truth is that teams are essential for accomplishing tasks effectively.

Taking care of one’s health is no exception. Unfortunately, we often fail to consider healthcare from a team perspective, resulting in a lack of awareness about the roles of different team members. This knowledge is vital for navigating the healthcare system and advocating for oneself effectively in clinics or hospitals.

People typically think of a healthcare team as consisting of only doctors and nurses, the increasingly complex nature of healthcare may involve several other individuals who play crucial roles in addressing health issues.

Engaging with healthcare institutions you will encounter individuals devoted to assessing your clinical needs and assisting you in achieving your healthcare goals.

Some key members of a healthcare team include:

Medical Assistant:

Training - In the state of Ohio, a Certified Medical Assistant must graduate from an accredited medical assisting program, complete a non-paying practicum, and pass an exam.

Role - Clinical responsibilities such as checking patients in for visits, obtaining vitals, and relaying information during check-out.

Nurse: (LPN or RN)

Training - Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) complete 2 years of education and Registered Nurses (RNs) complete a 4-year degree.

Role - Provide nursing care, administer medications, and assist in various aspects of patient care.

Nurse Practitioner: (NP)

Training - Additional education after a 4-year degree. A NP master’s or Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degree.

Role - They are advanced healthcare practitioners. In some states, they can practice independently, while in others, they must work with a collaborating physician.

Physician Assistant:

Training - Complete a 2-year master’s program to become a certified PA.

Role - They are advanced healthcare practitioners. In some states, they can practice independently, but in other states, they work in association with a physician.

Physician:

Training - 4 years of medical school and at least 3 years of postgraduate training.

Role - They assess patients, make diagnoses, and formulate care plans which may include medicine or surgery.

Office Manager:

Training - Varies, but most institutions prefer a 4-year degree. Role - Oversee the operations of the medical office, managing employees and contractors. They also address patient complaints.

Although not an exhaustive list, the mentioned healthcare team members reflect the common composition of most clinics. Larger practices often include additional team members, while micro practices may have a minimal team comprising solely a clinician and a receptionist. In hospital settings, similar roles exist, accompanied by a range of administrative and clinical positions, such as respiratory therapists and dietitians, tailored to patients’ specific diagnoses and requirements. This highlights the dynamic nature of healthcare teams, adapting to diverse healthcare settings and patient needs.