American Academy of Professional Coders (AAPC) Practice Exam

Which of the following is considered a mid-level provider?

1. Medical Assistant

2. Nurse Practitioner

3. Physician

4. Medical Director

The correct answer is: Nurse Practitioner

A mid-level provider is a healthcare professional who has advanced training and education, allowing them to provide care that is similar to that of a physician but with a different scope of practice. Nurse Practitioners are a prime example of mid-level providers. They possess advanced clinical training and education, often including a master's degree in nursing, and have the authority to diagnose conditions, order and interpret diagnostic tests, initiate treatment plans, and manage patient care. This role is distinct from that of a physician, who has extensive training and medical licensure that allows for broader and more complex decision-making in patient care. In contrast, Medical Assistants, while vital in the healthcare team, typically perform administrative and clinical tasks under the supervision of healthcare professionals but do not hold the advanced clinical responsibilities that define mid-level providers. Physicians are fully licensed independent practitioners with a complete range of diagnostic and treatment capabilities, while Medical Directors generally oversee clinical operations and ensure compliance with medical standards but do not provide direct patient care in the same capacity as mid-level providers.