Physician vs. Physiologist — What's the Difference?
By Fiza Rafique & Maham Liaqat — Updated on April 30, 2024
A physician specializes in diagnosing and treating diseases in patients, whereas a physiologist studies the functions of living systems.
Difference Between Physician and Physiologist
Table of Contents
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Key Differences
A physician is a medical professional trained to diagnose and treat illnesses, injuries, and other medical conditions. In contrast, a physiologist focuses on understanding the mechanical, physical, and biochemical functions of living organisms.
Physicians typically work directly with patients, prescribing treatments and managing healthcare. On the other hand, physiologists often work in research settings, studying various aspects of biological function at the cellular or systemic level.
The training for physicians involves medical school, followed by residency and possibly a fellowship, emphasizing practical patient care. Whereas physiologists usually pursue a doctoral degree in physiology or a related field, focusing more on research methodologies.
Physicians are essential for healthcare delivery, working in hospitals, clinics, and private practices. In contrast, physiologists are primarily found in laboratories, universities, or research institutions, contributing to scientific knowledge and education.
The outcomes of a physician’s work are often immediate, seen in the health improvement of their patients. Meanwhile, the contributions of physiologists may translate over a longer period, significantly impacting scientific understanding and eventually healthcare practices.
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Comparison Chart
Primary Focus
Patient care
Biological function research
Work Environment
Hospitals, clinics
Laboratories, universities
Training Required
Medical degree, residency
PhD in physiology or related field
Main Activities
Diagnosing, treating diseases
Conducting experiments, teaching
Outcome Impact
Direct impact on patient health
Long-term scientific contribution
Compare with Definitions
Physician
Physicians can work in a variety of healthcare settings, including hospitals and private practices.
The physician met with patients all day at his busy city practice.
Physiologist
A scientist who studies the physical and chemical processes that occur within living organisms.
The physiologist published a paper on neural response times.
Physician
A healthcare provider who conducts medical check-ups and preventive care.
I visit my physician annually for a complete health check-up.
Physiologist
A researcher who might use complex equipment and techniques to gather data.
The physiologist used an electroencephalogram to monitor brain activity during the study.
Physician
A medical doctor responsible for diagnosing and treating human diseases and injuries.
The physician prescribed antibiotics to treat the infection.
Physiologist
A professional who explores how different systems of the body interact and function.
The physiologist is studying how the body's systems respond to extreme temperatures.
Physician
A professional who practices medicine, often within a specific area, such as pediatrics or oncology.
After her diagnosis, she consulted a physician who specializes in oncological treatments.
Physiologist
An educator who teaches anatomy, biochemistry, and physiology at the university level.
The physiologist prepared her lecture on cardiac functions for the medical students.
Physician
A surgeon is a type of physician who performs surgical procedures.
The physician performed a successful surgery on the patient's heart.
Physiologist
A contributor to medical knowledge, helping develop new treatments or therapies.
The physiologist's research helped in developing new guidelines for hypertension management.
Physician
A physician (American English), medical practitioner (Commonwealth English), medical doctor, or simply doctor, is a professional who practices medicine, which is concerned with promoting, maintaining or restoring health through the study, diagnosis, prognosis and treatment of disease, injury, and other physical and mental impairments. Physicians may focus their practice on certain disease categories, types of patients, and methods of treatment—known as specialities—or they may assume responsibility for the provision of continuing and comprehensive medical care to individuals, families, and communities—known as general practice.
Physiologist
The biological study of the functions of living organisms and their parts.
Physician
A person trained and licensed to practice medicine; one who has a Doctor of Medicine or a Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine degree.
Physiologist
All the functions of a living organism or any of its parts.
Physician
(Archaic) A person who practices general medicine as distinct from surgery.
Physiologist
A person who studies or specializes in physiology.
Physician
A person who heals or exerts a healing influence.
Physiologist
One who is versed in the science of physiology; a student of the properties and functions of animal and vegetable organs and tissues.
Physician
A practitioner of physic, i.e. a specialist in internal medicine, especially as opposed to a surgeon; a practitioner who treats with medication rather than with surgery.
Physiologist
A biologist specializing in physiology
Physician
A medical doctor trained in human medicine.
Physician
A person skilled in physic, or the art of healing; one duty authorized to prescribe remedies for, and treat, diseases; a doctor of medicine.
Physician
Hence, figuratively, one who ministers to moral diseases; as, a physician of the soul.
Physician
A licensed medical practitioner;
I felt so bad I went to see my doctor
Common Curiosities
What educational path does a physiologist take?
Physiologists usually earn a PhD in physiology or a closely related field.
What is the main difference between a physician and a physiologist?
A physician treats diseases and injuries in patients, while a physiologist studies the functions of living systems.
Do both physicians and physiologists work with patients?
Physicians work directly with patients, while physiologists typically do not; their work is more focused on research.
What is the difference in salary between a physician and a physiologist?
Generally, physicians earn a higher salary than physiologists, reflecting their direct patient care responsibilities.
Can physiologists become physicians?
Physiologists can become physicians if they complete medical school and the necessary clinical training.
Do physiologists contribute to medical advancements?
Yes, physiologists contribute significantly to medical research, which can lead to new treatments and therapies.
Are there different specializations within physiology?
Yes, physiologists can specialize in areas such as neurophysiology, exercise physiology, or endocrinology.
Is being a physician the same as being a doctor?
Yes, a physician is another term for a medical doctor.
What might a physiologist study in a laboratory setting?
A physiologist might study anything from cellular processes to the effects of diseases on organ systems.
Can a physiologist prescribe medication?
No, physiologists do not prescribe medications as they are not clinical doctors.
How long does it take to become a physician?
It typically takes about 7-10 years of postgraduate training to become a physician.
What is a common setting for a physiologist to work in?
Physiologists commonly work in academic and research settings.
What role does a physician play in a hospital?
Physicians are integral to the clinical management of patients, providing diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up care.
Can a physician conduct research?
Yes, many physicians also engage in research, especially those affiliated with academic medical centers.
What types of diseases might a physician treat?
Physicians can treat a wide range of diseases, from acute infections to chronic diseases like diabetes.
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Written by
Fiza RafiqueFiza Rafique is a skilled content writer at AskDifference.com, where she meticulously refines and enhances written pieces. Drawing from her vast editorial expertise, Fiza ensures clarity, accuracy, and precision in every article. Passionate about language, she continually seeks to elevate the quality of content for readers worldwide.
Co-written by
Maham Liaqat
