Final answer:
A physician assistant is a medical provider who goes through approximately 26½ months of education and is licensed to practice with the oversight of a physician, completing a master's program and clinical rotations.
Step-by-step explanation:
The type of provider who goes through approximately 26½ months of education and is licensed to practice medicine with the oversight of a physician is known as a physician assistant (PA). PAs receive extensive training through a combination of classroom education and clinical rotations. They work in all areas of medicine, diagnosing illnesses, developing and managing treatment plans, and may even perform surgeries. Their education typically involves a 2-year master's program, encompassing both theoretical knowledge and practical experience. Although not described in the reference information provided, Physician Assistants do usually complete such an educational period before beginning practice.
By comparison, other medical providers such as reproductive endocrinologists and pharmacists have different educational requirements and roles. Reproductive endocrinologists complete a four-year residency in obstetrics and gynecology, followed by a three-year fellowship in reproductive endocrinology. Pharmacists, on the other hand, are required to hold a doctorate in pharmacy. Chiropractors must complete a four-year Doctor of Chiropractic degree following their undergraduate studies. Becoming a specialist in any field of medicine, including geriatrics, usually involves a long and rigorous educational and residency process to satisfy the increasing needs of the aging population.