A Nurse Practitioner (NP) is a registered nurse who has an advanced degree in the assessment, diagnosis and treatment of patients.  NPs have national certification in their area of expertise. They specialize in areas such as pediatrics, geriatrics, family and women's health. In a clinical setting, NPs perform physical examinations, treat patients for acute and chronic illnesses and prescribe medications as needed. All NPs specialize in preventive care, teaching patients about their conditions and how to stay healthier. They can serve as Primary Care Providers (PCP) for healthy and ill children and adults and their fees are covered by most private, Medicare and Medicaid health insurances.