An M.D. degree is awarded at the completion of medical school. To complete most specialty training requires at least 3 years in a progressively more responsible role.
Some specialties require even longer.
Physicians may care for patients in both clinic and hospital settings without supervision. Their license allows them to write prescriptions for any medication. Nurse Practitioners work in collaborative relationships with physicians. They provide primary care for patients in clinic settings and in some areas may care for hospitalized patients as well. Their license allows them to write prescription-type orders for many medications.