Ultimate Glossary of Healthcare Career Acronyms

Choosing a career in healthcare can feel like learning a whole new language—especially when every title seems to come with an acronym. Whether you’re prepping for medical school, looking into shadowing opportunities, or exploring clinical roles abroad, this glossary will help you decode the most common acronyms in the medical field.

MD – Doctor of Medicine

A licensed physician who has completed medical school and is trained in allopathic medicine (the traditional, science-based medical model). MDs can specialize in any area of medicine.

DO – Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine

A fully licensed physician who practices a holistic approach to medicine and receives additional training in osteopathic manipulative treatment (OMT). DOs are common in the U.S. and can pursue all medical specialties.

PA – Physician Assistant (or Physician Associate)

A healthcare professional who practices medicine in collaboration with a physician. PAs can diagnose illnesses, prescribe medication, and perform procedures. Requires a master’s degree from a PA program.

NP – Nurse Practitioner

A registered nurse with advanced clinical training and a master’s or doctoral degree. NPs can diagnose, treat, and prescribe medications—often working independently, especially in primary care.

RN – Registered Nurse

A licensed nurse who provides direct patient care, assists in procedures, and manages patient records. Requires an associate or bachelor’s degree in nursing and passing the NCLEX-RN exam.

LPN / LVN – Licensed Practical Nurse / Licensed Vocational Nurse

Entry-level nurses who provide basic patient care under the supervision of an RN or physician. Known as LPNs in most states and LVNs in California and Texas.

CNA – Certified Nursing Assistant

Provides hands-on care such as bathing, feeding, and assisting with mobility. CNAs work in hospitals, nursing homes, and clinics. Requires a state-approved training program and certification exam.

EMS – Emergency Medical Services

A system that provides out-of-hospital acute medical care. Includes professionals like EMTs and paramedics.

EMT – Emergency Medical Technician

Responds to emergency calls, provides basic medical care (CPR, wound care, stabilization), and transports patients. Certification is required.

Paramedic

A higher-level EMS provider than an EMT, capable of advanced procedures like intubation, IV administration, and medication delivery. Requires more extensive training and certification.

CRNA – Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist

An advanced practice nurse who administers anesthesia and monitors patients during procedures. Requires RN licensure and a specialized master’s or doctoral degree.

PT – Physical Therapist

Helps patients improve movement and manage pain through exercise and rehabilitation plans. Requires a Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) degree.

OT – Occupational Therapist

Assists patients in regaining or developing the skills needed for daily living and working. Requires a master’s or doctoral degree in occupational therapy.

SLP – Speech-Language Pathologist

Diagnoses and treats communication disorders, speech delays, and swallowing issues. Requires a master’s degree and certification.

RD / RDN – Registered Dietitian / Registered Dietitian Nutritionist

Specializes in nutrition planning and education for health and disease management. Requires a bachelor’s degree, internship, and certification exam.

DDS / DMD – Doctor of Dental Surgery / Doctor of Dental Medicine

Both are degrees for licensed dentists—there’s no difference in scope of practice. Dentists diagnose and treat oral health issues.

DA – Dental Assistant

Supports dentists with patient care, sterilizing tools, and office duties. May require certification or on-the-job training depending on the state.

DH / RDH – Dental Hygienist / Registered Dental Hygienist

Performs preventative dental care like cleanings and oral exams. Requires an associate or bachelor’s degree and licensing.

PCT – Patient Care Technician

Similar to a CNA but often with additional training in EKGs and phlebotomy. Works in hospitals or long-term care facilities.

MA – Medical Assistant

Performs both administrative and basic clinical tasks in outpatient or clinic settings. Training can be completed in under two years. 

MPH – Master of Public Health

A graduate degree focusing on population health, policy, epidemiology, and health promotion. Often pursued by professionals in global or community health.

PharmD – Doctor of Pharmacy

A licensed pharmacist who dispenses medication, offers patient counseling, and ensures proper drug usage. Requires a PharmD degree and licensure exam.

MLS / MLT – Medical Laboratory Scientist / Medical Lab Technician

Performs diagnostic lab tests to aid in diagnosis. MLS typically holds a bachelor’s degree; MLT usually holds an associate degree.

MT / RT(R) – Medical Technologist / Radiologic Technologist

Performs diagnostic imaging (like X-rays). Requires certification and associate or bachelor’s degree depending on the specialty.

CHW – Community Health Worker

Works to connect communities with healthcare resources and education. CHWs often work in public health and global health outreach settings.

DPT – Doctor of Physical Therapy

A clinical doctorate required to practice as a physical therapist. Focuses on rehabilitation and physical function.

MSW / LCSW – Master of Social Work / Licensed Clinical Social Worker

Mental health and social care professionals who work in hospitals, schools, or therapy settings. LCSWs require additional clinical training and licensure.

MD/PhD – Dual Doctor of Medicine and Philosophy

A combined research and clinical degree for students who want to become physician-scientists. Prepares graduates for careers in academic medicine and biomedical research.

BSN / MSN / DNP – Bachelor / Master / Doctor of Nursing Practice

Progressive levels of nursing education:

• BSN: Bachelor’s degree for RNs
• MSN: Advanced practice and specialization
• DNP: Clinical doctorate for leadership and top-level practice roles

BME – Biomedical Engineer

Applies engineering principles to healthcare, including designing medical equipment and developing new technologies.

OTD – Doctor of Occupational Therapy

Advanced clinical degree required for OTs in some states or specialized roles.

RT – Respiratory Therapist

Treats patients with breathing difficulties (e.g., asthma, COPD). Requires an associate degree and certification.

Health Professions Terminology Can Be Confusing—But You Don’t Have to Navigate It Alone

Whether you’re planning your path to medicine or just figuring out which role fits you best, Go Elective is here to support your journey. Through clinical internships abroad, we help students from all backgrounds gain clinical experience, explore specialties, and discover their ideal healthcare career.

Explore our programs or apply today to begin your journey into medicine, public health, nursing, and beyond.

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Recent Articles , Pre-health, Medical Electives, Dental Internships, Nursing Internships,

Author: Go-Elective Abroad

Date Published: May 13, 2025