Which professionals are considered practitioners in Connecticut?

In Connecticut, the definition of practitioners is broader than just the traditional roles of physicians and dentists, actually encompassing a variety of healthcare providers who are authorized to prescribe medication. The inclusion of nurse practitioners and physician assistants alongside physicians reflects the evolving nature of healthcare delivery, where these professionals play critical roles in patient management and treatment.

Nurse practitioners are advanced practice registered nurses who have been trained to diagnose and treat a range of health conditions, and they have prescriptive authority within their scope of practice. Physician assistants work under the supervision of a physician and also have the authority to prescribe medications, further expanding access to care.

By recognizing these roles, Connecticut's approach aligns with contemporary healthcare practices that prioritize collaboration among different types of healthcare providers to enhance patient care. This is why the answer that includes physicians, nurse practitioners, and physician assistants correctly identifies the group of practitioners recognized in Connecticut's legal framework.