| Aspect | Mds | PAs |
|---|
| Credentials | Medical Doctor (MD) degree, medical license | Physician Assistant (PA) certification, master's degree, certification |
| Work Environment | Hospitals, clinics, private practices, specialized medical settings | Hospitals, clinics, outpatient facilities, primary care practices |
| Roles & Responsibilities | Diagnose, treat, prescribe medications, perform surgeries (in some specialties) | Diagnose, treat, assist in surgeries, prescribe under supervision |
MDs (Medical Doctors) and PAs (Physician Assistants) both work in healthcare settings, but MDs have completed medical school and hold full medical licenses, allowing them to independently diagnose and treat patients. PAs work under physician supervision, have a master's degree, and assist in patient care. While their roles overlap, MDs typically have broader authority and responsibilities in medical decision-making.