Diagnoses and treats: MDs diagnose and treat acute and chronic illnesses. They use conventional medical tools, such as X-rays, prescription drugs, and surgery.
Orders and performs tests: MDs order, perform, and interpret diagnostic tests, such as lab work and X-rays.
Prescribes medications: MDs prescribe medications and other treatments.
Manages care: MDs manage a patient's care.
Refers to specialists: MDs refer to other specialists and healthcare providers as needed.
Specializes: MDs can specialize in many areas, such as surgery, psychiatry, geriatric medicine, and pediatrics.