Non-Physician Providers and Allied Health

Physician Assistant (PA)

A category of Non-Physician Provider (NPP) who delivers diagnostic, therapeutic, and preventive healthcare services under the oversight, control, and direction of a supervising physician.

Take medical histories, perform physical exams, analyze diagnostic tests, formulate diagnoses, perform clinical procedures, and prescribe medications.

Allied Health Professionals

Dedicated clinicians who provide complementary care supporting physicians and nurses.

Allied health is divided into four major categories accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP)

Laboratory Technologists and Technicians

Diagnostic testing specialists, including radiologic and nuclear medicine technicians.

Therapeutic Science Practitioners

Rehabilitation and nutrition clinicians, including Physical Therapists (PT), Occupational Therapists (OT), and Registered Dietitian Nutritionists (RDN).

Behavioral Scientists

Mental health and social support professionals, including Social Workers and Rehabilitation Counselors

Support Services

Pre-hospital emergency personnel, such as Emergency Medical Technicians (EMTs) and Paramedics

Social Workers (BSW vs. LCSW)

• Non-clinical social workers (Bachelor of Social Work entry) provide education and connect patients to essential community resources. Licensed Clinical Social Workers (LCSW, Master of Social Work entry) are clinical providers licensed to diagnose and treat mental, behavioral, and emotional disorders, though they cannot prescribe medication.

Community Health Workers (CHWs) and Navigators

Frontline non-licensed public health staff (also called health coaches, peer mentors, or advisors) embedded in communities to bridge gaps in care access. Patient Navigators guide individuals through complex healthcare systems, assisting with appointments, communication, and financial resources, particularly in chronic disease care such as oncology.