Who has more independence in making medical decisions: physician's assistant or nurse practitioner?

Question

I am making a MAJOR career switch at age 40. I once long ago was premed, have excellent grades in that and my subsequent major and masters' degree (unrelated) and I completed most of the requirements for med. school, minus the MCAT. But my age, the cost of med. school, malpractice insurance, and the changing face of medicine are scaring me away a bit and I am thinking of alternate careers.
Where can I put my scientific, medical oriented mind to best work in less time than med. school--as a PA or as an RN practitioner?  
    Do you have any experience as/with one of these?
    Do you have another idea I haven't thought of?
Money is an issue, unless scholarships are available.

Thanks in advance!

JNS · Accepted Answer

If you want to be a NP you must become an RN first and get your masters degree in nursing. You have more automomy as a NP. Depending on the state you live you do not have to have a doctor sign behind you. A PA you only have to have a bachelors degree( doesn't matter what your degree is in) and apply to PA school. A PA can only pratice with a doctor signing behind you and checking on everything you do.

catcat · Answer

I am only addressing the money issue.  I think you are most likely to get scholarship money for nursing due to the nursing shortage.  Have you ever thought about pharmaceutical sales, though?  Now, there's your money tree.

Anonymous · Answer

PHYSICIAN ASSISTANT for sure. 

A physician assistant has more freedom and I believe More prestige and credibility. its never too late to start, check this site out for more info.  PureMedicalJobs.com

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Who has more independence in making medical decisions: physician's assistant or nurse practitioner?

3 Answers