Lassen Medical

PAs and FNPs (Midlevel Providers) are integral members of the Healthcare Team. They work in close coordination and under the medical direction of Lassen Medical Group's board-certified physicians in treating our patients.

PAs and FNPs are medical professionals concerned with preventing, maintaining, and treating human illness and injury by providing a broad range of health care services that are traditionally performed by a physician. They conduct physical exams, diagnose and treat illnesses, order and interpret tests, counsel on preventive health care, refer patients to specialists as required. and write prescriptions.

A Physician Assistant (PA) is a healthcare professional licensed to practice medicine with supervision of a licensed physician. Physician assistant education is based on the medical model although PA training is usually 2 to 3 years in duration. Most PA students start their medical education with a background of health care experience. A graduate from an accredited PA program must pass the NCCPA-administered Physician Assistant National Certifying Exam (PANCE) before becoming a PA-C; this certification is required for licensure in all states.

A Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) is a registered nurse who has completed specific advanced nursing education (generally a master's degree or doctoral degree) and training in the diagnosis and management of common as well as a few complex medical conditions. Family Nurse Practitioners are licensed through nursing boards rather than medical boards and are certified in their specialty, either American Academy of Nurse Practitioners (AANP) or American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC). Family Nurse Practitioners provide a broad range of health care services as well as a focus on health promotion, disease prevention, and health education and counseling.