Which professional may provide health care services under the supervision of a physician, including history taking, physical examination, and diagnosis?

Which professional may provide health care services under the supervision of a physician, including history taking, physical examination, and diagnosis?

• A. Nurse Practitioner (NP)
• B. Osteopath
• C. Registered Nurse (RN)
• D. Physician Assistant

Answer: (D)

This item tests who commonly provides health care under physician supervision, performing history taking, physical exams, and making diagnoses. A physician assistant is trained to carry out exactly these tasks under the supervision of a physician. They take patient histories, conduct exams, determine diagnoses, and develop treatment plans, with the authority to order tests and, in many places, prescribe medications under supervision.

This supervision model helps extend access to care and relies on collaboration between physicians and PAs. While nurse practitioners can diagnose and treat, their supervision requirements vary by jurisdiction and setting. Registered nurses provide direct patient care but do not typically diagnose or manage care. Osteopaths are physicians who practice medicine and often do so independently, not under supervision.