Medical Providers


Some staff may not be included in the list above.

What do the abbreviations mean?

Provider types (clinical roles)

Physicians (MD or DO) at UHS are all licensed to practice medicine in the State of Michigan and are all board-certified specialists in Family Medicine, Internal Medicine, Gynecology, or Psychiatry. Many have developed areas of special interest, such as cardiology, minor surgery, orthopedics, or women's health.

Physician Assistants (PA-C) have completed a two-year medical program after undergraduate training. PAs evaluate, diagnose, and provide medical care for a wide variety of problems. They also perform diagnostic procedures and minor surgery and prescribe medications and treatments. They work closely with physicians, and a backup physician is always available for their consultation. PAs are board-certified by the National Commission on Certification of Physician Assistants (PA-C) and function under the guidelines of the Michigan Medical Practice Acts. 

Nurse Practitioners (NP) are registered nurses (RN) with additional specialized education (NP, MS, MSN) and skills to provide primary health care. Nurse practitioners identify and manage health problems and promote preventive health behaviors. All NPs have completed a certification program or hold a master's degree. NPs also have American Nurses Association certification as adult nurse practitioners and work in conjunction with physicians. 

Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) are nurse practitioners (NP) who are certified to provide primary care across the lifespan (children through adults).

Behavioral Health Nurse Practitioner (BNP) sometimes used to indicate a psychiatric/mental health NP role; title/usage can vary by organization.

Women’s Health Nurse Practitioner (WHNP) a nurse practitioner (NP) certified to provide primary care focused on women’s and reproductive health.

Certified Nurse-Midwife (CNM). An advanced practice registered nurse certified in midwifery who provides gynecologic and reproductive health care, including prenatal and postpartum care.

Doctors of Optometry (Optometrists or OD) are eye doctors who specialize in examination, diagnosis, and treatment of impairment and disease of the visual system. They are licensed to practice in Michigan.

Registered Nurses (RNs) and Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) provide clinical services and support for patients throughout UHC.

Certifications/specialty credentials

Board Certified (BC) Indicates the clinician holds board certification in their specialty area.

Certificate of Added Qualifications in Sports Medicine (CAQSM). An additional credential held by some physicians indicating advanced training/experience and specialty qualification in sports medicine.

Athletic Trainer (AT) is a health care professional trained to prevent, evaluate, and treat injuries and medical conditions affecting physically active individuals.

Athletic Trainer, Certified (ATC) are athletic trainers who have earned national certification (Board of Certification) and practices under state licensure/regulation.

Academic degrees

Master of Science (MS) is a graduate degree in a science/health-related field.

Master of Public Health (MPH) is a graduate degree focused on population health, prevention, and public health practice.

Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) is a doctoral degree reflecting advanced scholarship and/or research training in a specialized field.

Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) is a graduate nursing degree that prepares RNs for advanced practice, leadership, education, or specialty roles (often associated with NP preparation).