Why I chose to become a MD and NOT a PA/NP!

[@Kwicdrawmcgraw]

I'm a nurse and I originally applied for the Np program, however, I finally decided i wouldn't be happy answering to a physician forever. I'm starting prerequisites for MD school next month. Thanks for being an inspiration.

[@chrisd6736]

Wow that’s pretty cool but a very long haul. Just make sure you do all the opportunity cost analysis. Being a nurse is a damn good job with damn good earnings potential. Med school debt and lost earnings during residency is nothing to sneeze at.

[@kaitlynkilpatrick36]

@@chrisd6736 it's definitely a financial investment but at the same time sometimes opportunity cost doesn't outweigh the fact that you know you won't be happy in that particular field.

[@chrisd6736]

Kaitlyn Kilpatrick- ya for sure. Just want OP to be 100% sure is all.

[@Kwicdrawmcgraw]

Honestly, I don't want to be a doctor for the money. NP salary is enough for me. I want autonomy, knowledge, and to be on charge of serving my community.

[@fearlesswomen7899]

NP are independent providers in many states

[@dookfnp]

I’m an NP and have been for 24 years. I was an RN for 14 years before getting my masters in nursing. So now 38 years total of being a nurse and I am happy with my career. I’ve helped a lot of people along the way. Thank you SO much for this video. It was very respectful of NP’s and PA’s and I appreciate it. I have really never had a “problem” with having a collaborative physician. They have all been very supportive of me, my role and what I can bring to the table. We are all in this together and collaboration is a huge part of everyone’s role in healthcare.

[@JohnThePA]

I'm a PA and I wanted to become a PA. My message to all of you on the fence is that if you've ever seen yourself as a doctor - go to medical school and do your time. There are no shortcuts. I'm happy being a PA and I make really good money in the ER. But you'll never be happy being a PA if you want to do surgeries or call 99% of the shots (the other 1% being administrators and politicians telling you what to do).

[@bladebranson4312]

Well said

[@ashleyallen8094]

PAs practice in surgical fields and from what I’ve seen, most are fully autonomous in their practice.

[@mattgehm7827]

@@ashleyallen8094 they practice in surgical fields but will never be the lead provider in the OR. They are first assist and sometimes not even that if there is a resident. On the surgical floors they may have more free decision making but even then the physician can still over rule and has the final say

[@ashleyallen8094]

@@mattgehm7827 I meant more as a whole, PAs are pretty autonomous from what I’ve witnessed. But that’s the beauty of it all: so many specialities and levels of providers that one can choose where they feel most comfortable.

[@calvinklein6903]

@@ashleyallen8094 Doing surgeries autonomously? Stop bullshitting.

[@Qagtol]

I became a PA through the U.S. Air Force Health Professions Scholarship Program. They covered my tuition and books 100% and paid me a monthly stipend which was more than enough for living expenses. I graduated PA school debt free and with some money in my pocket. Best educational decision I ever made. I have been practicing for over 5 years and loving every minute of it.

[@cubanorasta94]

Can you tell me more about your journey as a PA in the Air Force?

[@thenightdances21]

Yes please can you tell us about your PA journey in the military?

[@jasmineadams9657]

I’ll be doing Air Force ROTC and I’m thinking about going to PA school through the HPSP scholarship program. Please speak more on this!!

[@Qagtol]

@@thomasa4239 My "MOS" was 42G3. And just so you know, we don't call it MOS in the Air Force. It's AFSC. And why are you saying this is BS. You don't know me.

[@Qagtol]

@@cubanorasta94 Once you get accepted to a PA school of your choice you can apply for the Air Force Health Professions Scholarship, just call a local recruiter. Once you get set up the AF pays tuition and books for PA school and gives you a stipend to live off of every month. Once you graduate you owe 3 years of service in the AF as a PA. You will start out doing Family Med for at least 2 years.

[@howtomedicate]

I started medschool 6 years ago, and this year in august I will finally be done!

[@DivineSeaDragon]

congratulations!

[@tkeks007]

How to Medicate CONGRATULATIONS 😊🎉🎉🎉

[@howtomedicate]

@@tkeks007 thank you!

[@amandal.1422]

Congrats!! May i ask why it took you 6 years?

[@andreijhorn5849]

Amanda L. Many countries have 6 year med schools with a 2-4 year working community service/residency after. It's 6 years because we have the option of entering med school straight out of high school. The degree is generally called MBChB or MBBS. As opposed to the American/Canadian MD or DO. It comes out to the same thing though and we cam apply to US residencies directly after med school as long as USMLE is completed.

[@ezellstewart3894]

Wrapping up my second semester of physics, taking it one step at a time to reach my goal. I have a long way to go but I will get there no matter what. It’s a marathon not a sprint

[@tracy_cakkes]

Same Premed is no joke I’m appreciating each small accomplishment

[@rntomd7839]

Exactly, have to take it one step at a time

[@gwillis01]

Keep going and don't stop. Your hard work will pay off.

[@JohnSmithAwesomeSauce55]

Well said... how you doing now? I’m just starting my first classes

[@johnkirk8650]

After you finish step one as a premed, you have to study for STEP ONE

[@vmntmn]

Dear Dr. Antonio Webb, Thank you for this video. It has helped me decide that I want to become a MD. I have been driving myself crazy for the past few years trying to decide if I wanted to be an engineer, ibanker, CRNA, Dentist, or computer scientist, and so on. I hope your health is good and your life is great. Best

[@TheCousinEddie]

Great video! During my 18 years of being a Critical Care RN I've only met one physician that changed their specialty mid-career. He went from internal medicine to Anesthesiology in his mid-forty's.

[@PCTLadyPuterTutor]

My son started out licensed in Internal Medicine and then decided to specialize in Cardiology, adding 3 more years of cardiology fellowship after residency to his schooling. So he has 14 years of schooling under his belt.

[@curtwaldron1091]

Happens all the time and even in their 50s.

[@janake7]

The beauty of career choices of medicine you can pick and choose wherever you want. I am FNP I do not regret my decision and proud of those who pursue being a doctor. You have to find your niche in what role you choose. It takes dedication perseverance and focus!!

[@dakeyah9331]

this is hard, I'm currently having this struggle. I know I am meant to lead and like the autonomy part of MD, but at the same time I like the freedom to learn other specialties ..

[@cmhardin37]

Yeah imagine being stuck in a specialty that you no longer enjoy. When you graduate from PA school, you can work a full-time job during the week while picking up additional hours at nights and weekends in the emergency room. Well medical residents make minimum wage working 80 hours a week, you can make full salary 80 hours a week.

[@WildeMike49]

Go into internal medicine if you want flexibility to find a subspecialty along the way

[@lucascooper3613]

You’re such a badass. The way you simply described your reasons at the end of the video for becoming an MD really got me.

[@jennyobiliseen4301]

Pretty cool that I found your channel. I actually know a person that works at your hospital and has met you and your attending.

[@danlandino6735]

I just got into PA school and am starting May 18th. My dream is to work in ortho and I have shadowed several ortho PAs and MDs. I love watching your videos and can’t wait to begin my journey!

[@antoniowebbmd]

Awesome! Congrats on your acceptance and good luck! Stay in touch 👊🏾

[@Mini-rt8bm]

Are you done with your program yet ?

[@danlandino6735]

@@Mini-rt8bm just finished a couple weeks ago

[@IslemTav]

May I ask what you did for PCE? Were you already in the healthcare field?

[@danlandino6735]

@@IslemTav so out of high school I became an EMT by my second year of college. While volunteering as an EMT I also was working my daily job at a grocery store while in undergrad and they licensed me as a pharmacy tech. After graduation I worked for Pfizer as a research tech and preceptor running phase 1 drug trials, and lastly while working for pfizer and getting my application ready I volunteered on my two days off for a free healthcare clinic as a medical assistant. Thats where a retired ortho surgeon took me under his wing and really got me into ortho. Now I work for a small community hospital with no residents in ortho/spine. I was brought on as the spine PA but I also help to cover joint replacements, hand/upper extremity, and sports medicine. I love it so far and have gotten great experience working in both an outpatient clinic and first assisting in the OR weekly.

[@becca99004]

Thank you for making this. I’m still stuck between PA and med school

[@armandosolis3560]

Med School!!!!

[@dontrealbrown225]

I’m stuck between PA and MD too. I’m leaning more towards PA.

[@DivineSeaDragon]

Becca PA!!!

[@MHSMagicLuver]

I am a PA student :) if you have any questions you can DM me on Instagram. I love answering questions and it’s easier than on here. @lisafellis

[@adaezenjoku7527]

@@Mursejeff there's no reason to do NP over PA if you're not already a nurse if anything PA is better

[@ThatOneScienceGuy]

“I didn’t want to answer to anyone” yeah I get it, especially after being in the military following orders.

[@sujathakorlam4946]

I am doing my PA in UK. Your videos are really interesting. Thank u

[@coffeepandacat]

I want to be a CRNA. A lot of things that Antonio says inspires me and his journey. He is an example of if you really want something and you work tooth and nail for it, it can be done.

[@medbookish9174]

Dr. Webb I have got selected in M.S in Orthopedic Surgery residency in India and it is for 3 years. Thank you for your support 😊

[@howtomedicate]

Great choice, and good luck!

[@tkeks007]

med bookish CONGRATULATIONS 😊🎉🎉🎉

[@mustafaaa772]

Damn congrats man!

[@DrAdnan]

It’s interesting to see the increasing autonomy of NP’s and PA’s over the years, especially in primary care

[@geraldomedrano5558]

Do you think they should have that autonomy? Are they as capable of effectively treating patients as an MD trained primary care physician?

[@HRU-ou3vi]

I think it will only increase overtime.

[@howtomedicate]

Indeed, it makes care cheaper to. This is one of the great benefits.

[@geraldomedrano5558]

@@howtomedicate but then why do we need physicians in primary care when NPs and PAs can do the job just as effectively and save everyone money

[@howtomedicate]

@@geraldomedrano5558 they are only allowed to act in a small predetermind field. So they lack the overview of an GP.

[@zhinningenge1754]

Great video. I'm a DNP. A recent study showed that DNPs who took a simplified version of the USMLE had very low pass rates (about 30%). New medical school graduates have a 98% pass rate, btw. The level/quality of training is not at all comparable. If you want to be a doctor, just go to medical school. Yes, we NPs and PAs do play an important role but...

[@CM-oy2kd]

This guy is inspiring a lot of people. I’m starting my prequisite courses next week. I’m an EE major and my courses are complicated but I picked up an extra 6 classes to apply for med school

[@leeslyrose]

I went to a sports medicine magnet program in high school and I’ve always been into podiatry and bones but I also want to raise a family so I think I’ll b sticking to PA and focus on ortho and sports med :)

[@ashleyallen8094]

Ortho/sports med is my first love, too! I start shadowing at a clinic Thursday!!

[@Chynita]

I worked for an orthopedics and sports medicine practice. I loved it! I plan on pursuing sports medicine as a nurse.

[@Marilyncorrales]

Great video! Also for anyone who is an aspiring MD and worried about loans, don't be! You can attend an MD school and get scholarships. Certain schools give you free education, like NYMed, or you can qualify for loan repayment programs, or other institution scholarships. I think there is a lot of misconception among minorities especially about doctors taking too much debt but that's changing. Don't give up!

[@fallback8314]

scholarships lol..........if scholarships were THAT easy to get MOST people in the medical field wouldn't be in debt genius.

[@curtwaldron1091]

@@fallback8314 Exactly. Obviously, she speaking out of turn and never went to medical school.

[@fallback8314]

@@curtwaldron1091 she?? and again, if i'm wrong how come most doctors are in huge debt after med school???

[@10byrdie]

You can’t switch specialties as an NP. You have to go back to school to specialize. Only PA’s can switch specialities without any schooling.

[@Dtxserg]

AB Actuslly you can switch between professions if you’re a Family Nurse Practitioner, many people aren’t aware of this and are under the impression that only Physician assistants can switch between professions however this is untrue.

[@segovian]

Actually, that's false. The specialties that cannot switch are Psychiatric, Midwife, and Anesthesia. The rest can do it easily. If you're working in the ER and want to go into surgery, it's not impossible. You just have to learn new things, just like you would as a PA if you wanted to switch

[@bladebranson4312]

@@Dtxserg thank you for saying this many people don't do their own research they run with everything they hear.

[@michellerowe-smith5803]

@@DtxsergLike you said NP can’t just switch because they are advanced nursing in different areas. FNP think that they can switch but most of them realize that when they try surgical sub specialties they fail miserably because they don’t learn any of the surgical skills necessary in NP school. In California they can’t get certified for Fluoroscopy and any work in orthopedic or other surgical specialties that utilizes fluoroscopy.

[@davidlakhter]

Thanks for the very informative video Dr. Webb!

[@stefaniebuissereth108]

I’ve been a registered nurse for 16 years before before becoming a nurse practitioner ...looking forward to an advancement in my career

[@AirdrieReed]

good for you!

[@mikeo.4203]

Love the whole idea of autonomy honestly one of the reasons I went back to school and left the navy was to not be told what to do for a bit. If I get the grades definitely will be looking into HSPS scholarships for med school. Half way through my bachelors!

[@travissmarion]

I'm currently in my nursing school, but most likely going into PA school afterwards. If I were younger I would have chosen to go to medical school, but unfortunately I decided to do a career change when I was almost 40 years old... 🤦🏻 I didn't want to do 13+ years of schooling and not be able to start seeing the fruits of my labor until I was 55 years old.

[@HeatherGingerr]

i’m in high school and also in a medical magnet school. i’ll be entering college next sure and not sure if i want to go the nursing or doctor route. feeling a little stressed out with this. God help me!

[@Dr.DeanGil]

Medical Doctor is the best decision, PA's and NP's have limitations. Doctors can work some years in hospitals and after they can open their own clinics. NP's and PA's can't do it. They need to work under the supervision of a doctor.

[@ryanjohnson2844]

Try your best for Doctor if u don’t make it then become a nurse

[@thewindgamer2607]

Same!

[@bladebranson4312]

@@Dr.DeanGil actually dear NPs can work independently in may states and eventually it will be all states please be knowledgeable before spreading wrong info thanks.

[@bladebranson4312]

@@ryanjohnson2844 nursing is not a fall back profession it's a calling. Do you want a nurse who doesn't love what they do??? No do you want a nurse with no patience and compassion no!! Remember doctors don't stay with patient's 24/7 nurses are with the patients 24/7.

[@P3411-v9r]

Wonderful video Dr. Webb! I'd just like to add that NP schools usually require nursing work experience before going into NP schools whereas PAs may not necessarily have any previous healthcare background.

[@Amandaaa2244]

You will not meet a single PA getting into school without healthcare experience

[@P3411-v9r]

Amanda Berg I was making a general comment about numerous PAs whose undergraduate degree may not be necessarily be directly in the healthcare field (e.g. nursing, pre-med). Additionally, when I stated “previous healthcare experience,” I’m talking about experiences such as LPN/CNA/RN/PT/DDS etc. and not scribe/front desk experience. However, when it comes to NPs, it is NOT possible to be one without prior experiences as an RN and without at least a few years of relevant experience. Note once again my comment was general, so if you as an individual had the experiences that I mentioned above, props to you! No hard feelings. There’s so much misunderstanding on what the roles of RNs are. I hope to shed light on the irreplaceable role of RNs as a healthcare team member and not simply as someone who collect I/Os/diaper change. Thanks!

[@mattgehm7827]

@@P3411-v9r thats not true anymore, there are direct entry NP programs that require no previous experience

[@SFROutdoors]

While it may be a serious reason, saying 'In it for the higher compensation' does not seem adequate for a med school interview answer...

[@Rekuiem_0105]

in the rest of the medical field, it's a blend. But in the OR, it's a whole different world.

[@ericmanso7355]

Study for my MCATs now about to apply for my SMP next fall

[@bellefeu4933]

Just a thought: Because of the extra 7-11 years (4 college + 4 med + 3-7 residency/fellowship) to become an MD/DO over a simple BSN, in the long run, it will take roughly 20 years for the doc to catch up in gross wealth. This is assuming the BSN prepared nurse works 3-4 shifts per week averaging 80-100k/year (with some OT and call), is frugal, and puts 30% of full salary into a market fund (sp500 + bonds 80/20 for example). Doing this, doctors will 100% make more money per year than a BSN nurse, however, the BSN nurse will have more money than a doc for almost their entire careers. Do what you want to do, and never choose something because something else* seems too far away.

[@fbi6555]

Bellefeu the data on this is iffy but I respect the core values of your message.

[@joshb2686]

Bellefeu around my area nurses make around 50k a year.

[@ruthhouston9860]

I dont know any nurse that makes that much unless they’ve been in the field 25+ years. Excluding like u mentioned having a second job and overtime. Nurses where im at start out at probably mid to high 50k and cap out close to 80k. Most young nurses I know are all in online NP schools.

[@benrhodes7725]

The pay for nurses you posted are extremely optimistic and not realistic for nursing first coming into the field. Also you neglect that physicians get paid in residency and fellowship. A physician will be able to catch up in gross wealth in more like 5 years, not 20. Edit: all that being said, them student loans though...

[@bladebranson4312]

@@ruthhouston9860 my dear you have nurses making more than that... take my word.

[@bryandelcid4065]

MD route is just so long. You really won't start seeing the money until like 15 years later due to high debt after finishing school and the quality of life for med students and residents is just not good. With that being said I would have to say that it's worth it for the surgeon specialty. I am no surgeon but I would do all the hard, long, and exhausting work just to be a surgeon.

[@DrDeusExMachina]

Yeah it is. t's about the patients

[@philippeboursiquot163]

GO TO STUDY AT A FREE UNIVERSITY IN GERMANY, OR USP UNICAMP BRAZIL

[@stevendijorio2624]

Philippe Boursiquot you can’t get an American license in Germany. If I could, trust me, I would.

[@FRACP]

Not really. You get paid during residency - which is clearly low - but still enough to get by. You shouldn't be doing medicine from money anyway.

[@Ahn-mu3db]

I'd love to be a surgeon

[@corinneobrien6196]

Thank you so much for this. Even though I have near perfect grades at an Ivy League and am a good candidate for medical school, my parents keep trying to pressure me to do PA school instead specifically because they want whats best for themselves, not me. Part of the reason is that they really want me to be in a more traditionally feminine role because I am a lesbian and they hate that. They think that by forcing me into traditionally feminine roles, I’ll eventually have no choice but to eventually be so desperate for survival and have no choice but to decide to pretend I’m straight for the rest of my life. They would rather I be an elementary school teacher or a nurse than be wealthy or happy. I am not going into medicine for the money, but seriously, my mom has spent years trying to force me to become an elementary school teacher or quit school and become a manicurist- things that people just do not make a basic living doing in our modern world (at least where I’m from, teachers were so underpaid that the majority could not survive without food stamps and housing assistance and make less than the average bartender). I get that PA school is a good decision for some people, but it’s not for me and I’m sick and tired of being pressured into it, especially when they start pulling out anecdotal evidence of that one rare PA that makes more money than a doctor. This video is the first time I’ve heard someone unapologetically admit that PA is not better than MD for everyone. We should just give people the information and let them decide what’s best for them. Thank you for your great work.

[@akx2743]

Hi doctor web, I am aspiring to be a surgeon and I am starting to shadow at hospitals. I am super excited 😊

[@charlesknight8461]

How about a crna

[@CobraClipsIt]

Angel Vollant depends on the hospital

[@armandosolis3560]

FNP's, PA's CRNA's, Midwives are considered mid-level providers.

[@charlesknight8461]

@@armandosolis3560 I thought crna was the leaders in providing anesthesia

[@eliasdavidreyes8611]

@Angel Vollant you can shadow Dr house or Meredith Grey

[@michellerowe-smith5803]

I’m happy you became a doctor too. Black men in medicine are needed. I’m a PA for 21 years and thought about medical school but the passion wasn’t there. I’m also an Army veteran. On plan to retire in 4 years at 55. Medicine has changed and is becoming more challenging.

[@kyleytrimm7277]

Thank you for the awesome insight!

[@antoniowebbmd]

Thanks Kyley!

[@wheelfastracer]

There are specialty programs for NPs. I'm currently in an Acute Care DNP program. In most states, we can practice autonomously, but many choose to work as part of a care-team - which includes an MD. Entering medicine later in life (40YO) I was not interested in 12-14 yrs to become an MD. I was more interested in caring for the person and not working against the disease. I did an accelerated BSN program (1Yr) worked 4 years in different ICUs and then applied to the DNP program, which is 3yrs long. The advantage of a DNP is it's a terminal degree. I can move from bedside care to administration w/o having to go back for more formal schooling.

[@Geeloveesu]

Did you already have an ADN when applying to the accelerated BSN program?

[@jcbocean529]

How is the program going? i recently discovered a dual AGACNP/FNP program that I’m very interested in. As a AGACNP, can you work in the ICU or ED of a Hospital? Hope all is well! 😊

[@Shameless_Papist]

I'm 13 and An icu doctor told me since I wanted to go in Healthcare I should be an PA it sounds interesting and Very good I will try it if surgery dosen't go good for me

[@andrewposner6703]

This video is awesome. I really wish that you or somebody else would do this from the patient perspective. How should a patient know when they should see a PA versus a doctor? I know people say that when it’s more complicated that you want the doctor, and of course, this is assuming that both providers are excellent providers. I am well aware that there are PAs that are better than some doctors, but this question is more if you should insist on the excellent doctor when maybe you can get in sooner to see the excellent PA or leave that appointment with the doctor for somebody who needs it more than you.

[@scarred10]

Theres no way a PA is goi g to be near as competent as a doctor,the difference in education,training a d breath of experience is huge in favour of the doctor,and I am a PA.

[@cheerios456c]

You definitely do have to answer to your supervising physician but they don't sign off on all your notes and prescriptions. Supervision specifications vary by state but it's only a limited number of charts they have to review in sign. A lot of PA's work very closely with their supervising doc when they start out to so the level of supervision can change over time as well. When I have my own clinics I'm working totally independently with the doc available if I have something usual pop up. When I'm assisting with their clinic it depends on the doc, some will still see the patient, others will not (so can still be fairly independent). You have to get to a point where you know how each doc thinks/practices and so that they trust you judgment first though. Also most surgical PA's/NP's I know do take call and weekend rounding. At least in my area this was the case. Always a doc on backup though for surgical emergencies.

[@rufusgoldstein2655]

Yes, there are pros & cons to all three professions , you just have to decide what appeals to you

[@rntomd7839]

Great video!! Love the advice

[@prescriptionbateman]

One of the last honest voices in healthcare.

[@alfe1402]

Maybe the best path is to be RN and then go to Med school, because unexpected things happen in life and you will have a base to start again.

[@queendoss8118]

Videos are amazing like having a video MENTOR I am in the medical field and decided to progress more in the field 👨‍🍳👩‍🍳🧐🤓💯🎯

[@ronbrooks6547]

As a African American Male, do you think I will be respected as a PA or should I just go to Medical School? I'm leaning towards a PA because I would only need 2 more years of School which means less Student loan. Another Option I'm looking into is Optometrist.

[@daddy3484]

Minority PAs are in high demand fyi. You just need to find the right supervising physician. They will see you as a huge asset as PAs bring in more revenue than they take home. Don’t ever sell yourself short if you become a PA however.

[@ronbrooks6547]

@@daddy3484 thanks

[@marlintill5599]

Dr. Webb, thank you for this video! Just to let you know NPs can either obtain a Doctor of Nursing Practice or a Ph.D not a Doctor of Nurse Practitioner

[@marlintill5599]

Also NPs can practice independently in some US states however the PA cannot

[@mattgehm7827]

But that doesnt supply any additional clinical education past a typical MSN

[@JamesGoyard28]

Dr Webb NPs cant switch specialties that easily. Only PAs can change without much issue. A NP can do family or acute care. Within family you can specialize in pediatrics, internal medicine, or geriatrics. Acute care is more the ER Side of the fence

[@Jattmafia313]

My neurologist has a np on staff

[@bladebranson4312]

Wrong info

[@yourfuturedocburenbeiya]

Hi Doc, when applying to medschool and if this question gets asked why medicine and not NP or PA, would it be appropriate to respond with that kind of answer like you mentioned comparing length, autonomy, etc.? In my opinion, it seems difficult to answer in a way that doesn’t sound as humble or altruistic... And that’s so awesome that you were prior military and have applied for the PA Program in the military, because my journey sounds similar except I’m still a premed all these years lol. I am even more inspired and I respect that you came from that background!! Thank you for sharing your journey, Doc!!!

[@HRU-ou3vi]

Dr. Webb, you are my "IDOL" but I have to CORRECT you as a member of the nursing profession. NP's cannot move laterally and have to specialize within a certain area of practice. And they specialize by "population" such a women health, mental health, pediatrics, acute care, etc. Therefore, if an NP wants to change specialties, they have to go back to school and get the training. It is not as extensive as the medical route but they cannot move laterally like a PA. At the moment, the DNP is optional but by 2025 all entering CRNA's will have to attain a DNP in order to practice or sit for boards and the nursing profession is moving in this direction. Over 23 states now allow NP's to practice independently of physicians and the vast majority of the other 27 states allow for collaborative agreements. Supervision of NP's is less likely when compared to a PA. It all depends on the location and I hope this help and is not offensive.

[@armandosolis3560]

Not in Texas

[@HRU-ou3vi]

@@armandosolis3560 please read my comment; it is very clear. I know Texas is not an independent state but there is a push there

[@armandosolis3560]

@@HRU-ou3vi I read your comment clearly. I was just mentioning in my state of Texas, you can move laterally to different areas of disciplines without the training you aforementioned. I think it all boils down to $$$$$.

[@HRU-ou3vi]

@@armandosolis3560 for NP's? I have to look that up because the only NP's to have the possibility of lateral movement are FNP's. Thank you for the update.

[@jjjohnson5771]

@HRU. Why did u choose NP over PA? I'm an RN, Ive already realized floor nursing is not for me. Pretty soon I will be faced with this dilemma.

[@kiamhong390]

I think NPs need formal education or certifications to switch specialties. I don't think NPs can assist in surgery but PAs can. Please correct me if I am wrong

[@Mimiscellaneous]

You’re right! NPs need extra education in order to switch specialties. As far as surgical assistance I think PAs are usually preferred; but NPs can also specialize in Acute Care and Emergency Medicine - so those ones may help with small procedures. Maybe in the future there will be a surgical specialization.

[@RS-ip8gw]

MD!!! if it's what you truly want. If not, don't dare. If you just want the white coat, seeing patients and having that "Doctor" feel -- NP/PA is better. MD is lifetime suffering if not for the right reason.

[@notsoepicgamer5420]

Well said. It pains me to see so many people go the MD route for the “clout” or for the bragging rights

[@burneymaha92]

Lifetime suffering? If you only want to half ass patient care and be limited in your care and knowledge then don’t go MD or DO.

[@samg8452]

I chose pa for work life balance

[@christophertaylor6693]

Can you speak on your time in the military, more specifically how you felt about the time it took to get where you are and your age. I’m currently 31 I did 10 years in the navy and I’m currently scheduled to get my associates In in two months I am choosing the RN route because I want to be a SRNA/ CRNA but I still feel uncomfortable about the age gap between myself and my classmates if not for the uncomfortableness I think I would try to for a MD did you experience anything like that what was the average age in your medical classes

[@burnsyodice3049]

I wouldnt worry about it do what you want to do. Doctor webb is at least 37 maybe 38.

[@TS-yn9ey]

Age should never be a factor in your decision to do anything in life. As long as you have the drive and determination, anything is possible.

[@lovefunkrockmusic]

31 is not old dude. KZbin Uncle Mike MD and not the popular Mike MD but Uncle Mike. He was a nurse for 16 years and dropped out of CRNA and finished MD school he was in his forties

[@cathy9279]

10 years ago PA school denied me saying “I can only see you as an MD. 40 post bacc credits paid in cash at $40,000 and now at age 53 FU I’m going to be a MD

[@zen_mindset1]

That's awesome 😎

[@bethrowland3724]

I Love the look

[@ashleyallen8094]

I chose the PA route for several reasons, but mainly because I have a number of specialties I want to experience. MD doesn't allow that type of flexibility. Also, I've had some MDs encourage the PA route due to be able to practice without the hassle of managerial tasks

[@MDForTheCulture]

I wish PA's can practice anesthesia.

[@ashleyallen8094]

@@MDForTheCulture They can!

[@MDForTheCulture]

@@ashleyallen8094 Reaaly?

[@ashleyallen8094]

@@MDForTheCulture PAs can practice in nearly any field possible!

[@MDForTheCulture]

@@ashleyallen8094 I’m aware of that I’m just wondering if their is a special certification and training that you would have to obtain?

[@imteazmanassra7153]

ive always wanted to be a pediatrician but i didn't realize how hard it is too get into medical school then i thought of being a NP but i wanna be a pediatrician but im scared of failer and being in dept.

[@bladebranson4312]

Stop being scared

[@zainaamer5859]

you can do it!

[@beachbum1523]

I wish I had the brain power to be a doctor, a PA, or an NP. I suffered pretty serious brain damage as a child. But being an MD, and particularly a surgeon means super-long hours. That wouldn't be for me.

[@radiance2mussington217]

yhhh

[@matronarona]

Honestly, as a nurse (RN), the rise in NPs is scary because of how their education and schooling is not regulated. I've seen RNs get straight into NP school after graduating, some with minimal experience, etc. It is not safe, especially since some have autonomy. I would never get into NP school if I want to prescribe meds, diagnose, etc because I feel that I will be not only putting patients in danger but also myself. 2 years is not enough, some only offer online schooling. I don't understand how you can learn alot in those 2 years... It's just not safe. Although the pay is attractive and the time to be allowed to practice is amazing, but is it really worth it? So risky. There is a reason why it takes a while to be a doctor and having doctors in my family, I know my nursing experience cannot be compared to their experience and vice versa. A dietician's experience is different to a physiotherapist's... even an assistant nurse's experience is different to a registered nurse's.

[@ashleyallen8094]

PA school is only two years and they are more than qualified, so I'm not understanding the logic here. To get into NP school you generally have to have a BSN (although there are direct entry programs for non-RNs). By the time someone graduates with an MSN, they've undergone 6 years worth of training. Online programs require in-person clinicals; only the didactic portion is online. Most NPs that I know, work(ed) while doing their MSN, so they're gaining even more experience.

[@bladebranson4312]

@@ashleyallen8094 well said

[@marshallguy301]

This is fundamentally untrue. Any accredited program is very highly regulated. NPs are also scheduled to go to a doctorate-level requirement by 2025 for all new NPs.

[@ashleyallen8094]

@@marshallguy301 I believe PAs are on the same track, but idk the time frame. It’s my plan to do a doctorate anyways though

[@Jayjay-311]

So Tell is what experience PA’s have when they apply to their program. I’ll tell you. A bachelors in any degree. Your logic makes no sense. By your logic, no one is qualified to take care of patients

[@zen_mindset1]

I'm a future PA who wants to specialize in emergency medicine or anesthesiology.

[@obscurelyvague]

I'm just trying to become a phlebotomist. The bureaucratic hurdles are very forbidding

[@daddy3484]

Don’t do phlebotomist just get an MA cert. You can do it all under a physician everything from blood draws to injections.

[@obscurelyvague]

@@daddy3484 I already have a Phlebotomist certificate but in NY it hardly means anything. I studied in a school that only provided training on a dummy arm. A lot of facilities that hire phlebotomists want you to have done at least 180 live needle sticks ( on real people). It is a standard. Of course in other states it can be different. Like I said, the bureaucratic hurdles are forbidding.

[@royjohnson9043]

Excellent choice.

[@talesfromtheroad9530]

This may sound like a silly question, but if anyone has advice I would love to hear it. I wanted to be a midwife when I was 17 but followed different twists and turns. I also wanted to become a doctor because I'm fascinated with the depth of knowledge and the leadership role. . . but I didn't want (as some other females mentioned on here) to derail having a family in the near future or become a mom while in residency. I'm 33 and now in an accelerated bachelor's program for nursing. I plan on applying to grad school for a dual degree, becoming a family NP and midwife. I'm halfway through my BSN program and wishing I was learning things that excite me more, like more pathology and medical diagnoses. Half of me still wishes I went to medical school, or went the PA route because it's modeled on the medical school model. I'm still going to stick with my NP plan. . . but to become a really good future general practitioner, will I need to study a lot on my own? Will I always have gaps and 1000x less knowledge because I didn't go a more rigorous route like med school?

[@mustang8206]

Not really. Nurses still learn a lot especially nps and you will have to learn on your own but so do doctors

[@talesfromtheroad9530]

@@mustang8206 Okay, thanks, this is reassuring :)

[@anthonyv.9979]

Is it true that MD’s don’t have time for family and life in general? I heard horror stories that MD’s don’t have a “balanced” work&family lifestyle as opposed to NPs who are more of a “9-5” type of job

[@rthurmond1995]

I didn't know what I wanted to do with my life after high school. I had no guidance and 1st gen college student. Life happened, ups and downs I ended up dropping out. I decided at 25 that I wanted to become a doctor. I talked myself out of it. Was able to finish my BA in Biology at 28. 4.0 GPA. I was discouraged about my age convincing myself that I wanted to be a mother and that it would be impossible especially during residency being almost 40 by the time I finished. I went to PA school and the rest is history. I wish at 18 I had my mind made up with what I wanted with my life at the time. Hell at 18 I was still raising my hand to go to the restroom.

[@nathalyaquino5453]

I just want to let you know you were not alone! Although I got my BS at 21, I didn't know what I wanted to do and went into working into food safety. Now at 26 I want to be a GI doc. My plan is get my prerequisites and apply by the age of 30. Never to late! I considered PA but after talking to some admissions officers they let me know I was still young for med school and with my work experience it will greatly help. I also know friends who have families and are going through residency :)

[@rohseans]

The degree is Doctor of Nursing Practice. Not Doctor of nurse practitioner. And as a DNP provider I do not answer to an MD at any time. Just wanna make sure every one is getting the correct information.

[@hopaomran6264]

So DNP is not a different of MD.. Who have final decision..

[@AllPro777]

@@hopaomran6264 It's very different. An NP is not as skilled or educated in Medicine as an MD. No way.

[@hopaomran6264]

@@AllPro777 which is better.?

[@AllPro777]

@@hopaomran6264 As far as salary, prestige, and autonomy, the MD is best but much harder to obtain.

[@hopaomran6264]

@@AllPro777 I'm a nurse in Egypt can I continue my studies in USA as a medical doctor.. If u don't mind contact with me on Facebook or what's app

[@anthonymarquez6493]

I have never heard of an np making more than an MD

[@anthonymarquez6493]

@Jswirv I know that. I just didn't think they could make more

[@anthonymarquez6493]

@Jswirv no I was just surprised I am an rn right now and want to become an MD

[@bladebranson4312]

@@anthonymarquez6493 do your independent research dear yes some do.

[@listrann]

i actually learned a lot!!

[@mariaGreenDay4ever]

I dont mean to be mean I generally have aquestion What I dont understand is how a PA can diagnose ,make decisions and treat a patient why half the years of university and no residency. It seems to me that it is a short cut for becoming a doctor and I am all for it!

[@Gamebreaker08]

Got my bachelors in chemistry. Honestly I've aways wanted to be an MD but I know my grades will prevent me from getting into any school. I've decided to do the next best thing in my opinion and that is go to nursing school with the ultimate goal of becoming a CRNA.

[@aajoe3723]

Love your videos Dr. Webb!! I’ve been an LPN for 8 years and I am finally graduating with my RN in 21 days !! I’m 32 now do you think it’s to late to start the medical school route ? I likely have another year and a half of pre reqs.. thanks for all your videos !!

[@SagaciousSix]

Check out Flight Nurse MD KZbin channel. He was a nurse and started med school at the age of 39. He has lots of great content for nurses thinking about med school.

[@aajoe3723]

JediSiouxsie cool I’ll do that, thank you !

[@thewindgamer2607]

Hey this is late but you can check this video by Doctor Mike kzbin.info/www/bejne/pJi7aGubaLmZm6c

[@leslief2542]

you can still apply to medical school,

[@davidsanchez586]

Hello Doctor Webb, I’m a 20 year old Community college student, I am gonna go for the ADN program that my community college has, then I’ll do a ADN to BSN program, then become a Registered Nurse, but lately I been thinking about Becoming a PA, is been on my mind a lot lately. What would you say to someone in my situation?

[@TS-yn9ey]

David Sanchez ADN to BSN is a great choice because ADN programs are more clinically focused. You will be a well rounded RN if you get your BSN as well. I’m graduating next month with my BSN. I did ADN to BSN. If you want to be a PA after, go for it!!

[@jjjohnson5771]

David, I'm an Rn. I did the community college route you described. I am currently considering the PA route, it will give me more autonomy and work closer with doctors. I think u should reconsider all your options, maybe in the end you will be happier doing something other than nursing.

[@davidsanchez586]

Thank you guys, this gave me more confidence in my choice

[@anon_sls6106]

Same. My advice is SHADOW!

[@unbrokencircle3294]

If you were in the military trying for military medical programs did you think about the uniformed medical school?

[@davonmcdaniel7847]

I’m 37 and I’ve been a nursing assistant for 18 years. I work in the ICU at a Hospital. I’ve always wanted to be Doctor that works in Internal medicine. But I’m just wondering am I to old now to go to medical school? If so I was just going to go for RN even though that’s not what I really want to do.

[@antoniowebbmd]

No, check out this video here 47 Year Old Mechanic Becomes a Doctor | NEVER too Old! kzbin.info/www/bejne/l6q3qKeFnsSqqqc

[@abigailmatos934]

A NP can not switch to other specialties like you say. The NP programs are now divided by subspecialties. An Adult care nurse practitioner cannot see pediatrics or women's health. a nurse practitioner is not supervised by a physician - the physician is a collaborator - He does not have to countersign her prescription. The PA needs to be supervised and have prescription countersigned. Get your facts straight. Things have changed.

[@antoniowebbmd]

Thanks for clarifying 👍🏾

[@ladyjluvly4u]

Why do you all have to speak to others with such a nasty tone... it’s kind of ridiculous. You can educate others without being condescending or snarky. It’s cringey asf.

[@Noa-vc2ew]

I know you compared the length of schooling between the different careers but do you think you could speak to the difference in intensity? For example, we know med school is longer but how much more rigorous is the studying than PA or NP schooling?

[@dking986]

I've been looking into it. The depth and intensity of medical school is far more than NP. PA school would probably be the closest to MD/DO intensity. Some people get their NP through online courses and it's fairly easy to get into an NP program by comparison than Medical school if that helps give you some perspective.

[@mattgehm7827]

I'll put it like this, one semester of medical where I go is nearly 45 credits, some NP programs are 36 credits in total

[@destinyscroggs9291]

Baam :) attractive work you have here

[@samueljimenez7792]

hey man, question. I will be about 42 when I would finish residency if everything goes well with school etc. Is that too old or should I not do MD school. I would have loans and all that.

[@gabrielelias6608]

Samuel Jimenez you’re gonna be 42 at some point, regardless of med school. Man, it’s never too late. Chase that dream

[@lovefunkrockmusic]

Not old at all. Another KZbinr uncle MD started medical school around your age

[@leslief2542]

many people are much older when they finish medical school and residency. your going to be that age anyways.

[@cs9742]

Why I became an NP. Just cuz it’s what I did

[@RockSimmer-gal4God]

Thanks for explaining the differentences. Sorry I can’t spell

[@Ahn-mu3db]

*Differences :p

[@ragazziita]

Please talk about the AA profession. A lot of people are unaware it even exists.

[@angeljaynie]

Truthfully, I want to become a MD. I'm 19 and I have a 3 month old daughter, I want to show her women can accomplish anything and I want my boyfriend to become his dream as well but I don't want to be in a situation for how many years not having an income for my daughter. Relying on my boyfriend that whole time. I do know in the long run it will be worth it. I would have a hard time becoming PA or NP and thinking that could be me, the MD. Does anyone have tips in my situation or ideas?

[@adaezenjoku7527]

If it's what you want, there's no better time to start then now. You got this! Make sure you keep up the grades with those pre requisites and find as many shadowing opportunities as possible. It will be hard while having a child but you can do it. My mom had me and my brother during med school and took care of us throughout residency. She's a doctor now. If you believe you can do it, then you can.

[@curtwaldron1091]

No NP or PA makes more than any MD or DO unless they own a practice.

[@vishnur5964]

Don't compare each of these profession they are unique in their own way.

[@leylanazarova5908]

Hi. I am 30 years old mom of 3 kids. How you think is it to late to become MD? I am going to clip program now.

[@ddfelder2]

Leyla Nazarova never too late! You’re still young. Just make sure you have the support and stay persistent. Don’t . Give. Up.

[@lovefunkrockmusic]

Not late at all.

[@Shameless_Papist]

Also I go to a healthscience and engineering magnet school also its 6-12 grade

[@jacquelineclark9783]

Sorry, what do you mean by not having to take call for NP/PA’s?

[@Peyton-g7i4f]

He means that NP/PA’s won’t be called into work at ungodly hours. For example, a doctor could be called in at 11pm even though their shift is over. NP/PA’s usually don’t get called in and if they do it’s not as often or at a high extent (no being called in at 4am or something).

[@parhamray4843]

Who is the best person to get a letter of recommendation from? eg; teacher, collage president and etc.

[@DivineSeaDragon]

Parham Ray I have the same question

[@jasonvoorhees8899]

Right

[@kuhataparunks]

Definitely more valuable if they have a “doctor” credential like Ph. D

[@jensenlawrence412]

You need 3 letters from professors, and you it definitely helps to get other letters from work supervisors, PI’s in your research lab, or any doctors you have worked with

[@parhamray4843]

@@jensenlawrence412 thanks

[@arlinenivens997]

I’m an MD and there are no substitute

[@leenmcheik7862]

Can an indicisive person become an MD? Or is PA a better option

[@daddy3484]

I’m a recent PA grad doing urgent care and will start studying for the mcat in a few months. You definitely need to be mentally sure 100% you want to be an MD/DO, as most of the people who berate the midlevel profession seem to be unmatched med school grads, med school dropouts, or international students. Don’t be that person. I got in when I was 23 so in the grand scheme of things if you get in early I say go for it. Either way most MDs/DOs have a masters already in public health or master of science. Preparing for med school is imperative if you don’t have a good support network either. You as a PA will not be thrown into seeing high acuity patients from day 1. Most employers expect you to know as much as a 4th year med student starting off, but the more years you accumulate the higher your salary as a PA, usually being capped at 130K unless you work insane amount of hours, which I know some PAs do and can make close to 180K.I will say though that depending on where you work you can experience a lot of toxic work environments but there are also really good ones that match you according to what your skills are. Your scope is limited however, but depending on who you work for you can see anything from high acuity 15-20 times a day to low acuity patients 40 times a day. All I can say if you are as indecisive as I am better to try out for both and see what sticks. Good luck.

[@Shameless_Papist]

I go to An Magnet program that offers Healthscience and Engineering!

[@antoniowebbmd]

Awesome!

[@mitchelllee951]

I'm not judging whatsoever, but this basically this tells me the main positives of MD are surgery, pay, and being the boss. Which all sound nice, but for 5-8 more years of school and residency idk man seems not worth it to me personally. Who knows, funny enough I'm in the same boat as you were, preparing to apply for the IPAP

[@robinsonodhiambo4007]

Hello Can A PA do Neuromedicine as a speciality please.

[@erinjk123]

Need med school to be a surgeon.

[@sweetrose19]

As a EMT, I always loved shadowing a MD or PA when I worked in the hospitals. NP were always annoying or had bad attitudes. I have yet to met a nurse who loved being a NP, besides Nurse Anesthetist

[@footdrop7512]

hello Dr webb. you are awesome. can u please talk about women in surgery. can u encourage women.

[@medflix9993]

Hey Im not Dr Webb, I'm just a rookie med student but you should know there's a surprising amount of women here in med school and teaching. They are still probably underrepresented among the older generations of doctors but that seems to be changing really fast.

[@AllPro777]

Why can't women encourage themselves?

[@mkshn111]

that's a deep peroneal problem