All Advanced Practitioners must complete a master's or doctoral degree program along with advanced clinical hours beyond their initial registered nurse preparation. In order for a Advanced Practitioner to be recognized as a health care provider and ensure the highest quality medical care, they are licensed to practice under specific rules and regulations of the state for which they are licensed to practice. Advanced Practitioners provide a complete range of primary, acute and specialty medical care services including: ordering, performing and interpreting diagnostic tests such as lab work & x-rays. Diagnosing and treating acute and chronic conditions. Managing patients' overall care, counseling, educating on disease prevention and positive health and lifestyle choices. Prescribing medications and monitoring therapeutic affects and non-therapeutic affects.