Best Career in America? Why I Became A Physician Assistant

Let's talk about the main reasons I chose to become a PA:
1. A Desire To be a Healthcare Provider
2. Duration of Training
3. Hands-On Nature of the Job
4. Flexibility!
5. Lifestyle
To learn more about what a PA is, check out my first video here: • Being a Physician Assi...
Follow me on IG at @lauracoralh

[@MrThelovechannel]

I love how passionate you are about PA. I’ve met too many people in the Healthcare field that don’t seem passionate about their careers

[@supereggtartersauce6464]

Well duh she's in dermatology. Most healthcare jobs are with patients who are sick and in pain. Dermatology is one of the more lesser emotionally stressful healthcare jobs

[@kimmyo5]

@@supereggtartersauce6464 That but ppl go for a financial route like the healthcare field and not a work life balance

[@LauraCoralPAC]

Thank you for watching and commenting! :) I've been very lucky and have worked in several different roles and have worked with some amazing and extraordinary people.

[@TIKTOKCONTENT99]

Only reason I’d be a pa because it sounds interesting

[@brandonk3007]

PA working in dermatology is exactly the specialty I want to work in!!

[@LauraCoralPAC]

Best of luck!

[@marlon7s]

how many years would that take?

[@theregoessha9493]

@@marlon7s 6

[@Mariah-bf2uj]

Same! Dermatology/Cosmetic surgery

[@lukerichardson6017]

I have been pursuing psychology with the intention of becoming a LCPC for a very long time. But I just recently started to heavily consider pursuing a PA program, with hopes of becoming a Psychiatric PA. This video really helped solidify that interest, thanks!

[@stefanyzambrano7325]

Good luck!! ☺️ I’m also considering this taking this route! 🥳🙌🏼

[@selfconceited29]

This is quite literally my life right now

[@Bea_Strong]

Oh my gosh I’m considering this also! Did you ever do it?

[@steph.uhknee]

Thank you so much! Just the information and advice I needed!!

[@macyhornosky862]

I feel like I’m in the exact same spot that you were in! Thanks for sharing.

[@trevorshockey9772]

Laura, definitely your love of people and the Lord is evident! ☺️🙌 I was excited to see your video as I just started as a program assistant for a new PA Program at my alma mater 🎉 It is an exciting field!! It would be cool to chat with you about being a PA and even just where things currently are for ya 👍 Either way, thank you for sharing!!

[@journalrosie]

such great information! thank you!

[@skyewaterland1223]

Wow this video is perfect timing for me! I'm about to graduate with my B.S. in Public Health and am currently applying for clinical research roles, but I've always had an interest in PA school! This definitely solidified my interest

[@Carolina-xj3dq]

“It was a gift from the universe!” - Thank you got that ❤️‼️ I will be starting school in the summer!

[@LauraCoralPAC]

That’s awesome! Congratulations!

[@rlouis215]

After nursing school I did consider PA but the schooling cost for NP was more affordable for me and I was already use to the nursing model so I decided over to go the NP god willing I will be in the graduating class of 2023

[@angeld8491]

Hi! How did it go, any updates?

[@spareld]

I have a masters in Kinesiology. And as I was in school I was a CNA. And decided to go back for PA school.

[@ibeensteph5540]

your are amazing and beautiful thank you for covering this topic because this is what i want to do but you really made me sure that this is what i want to do

[@claris4799]

Thanks for this video.

[@diamondgarcia]

I literally feel you just shared my experience with choosing PA as well. I, like yourself, didn’t know much about it until months before applying. I just started PA school so im very happy that you absolutely love your job. It makes me look forward to my future as a PA-C!

[@kathyiheanacho4862]

Can one become a PA after doing 4 year nursing program

[@diamondgarcia]

@@kathyiheanacho4862 by 4 year nursing program I’m assuming you mean a RN. If so, yes an RN can apply to PA school as long as they meet the perquisites :)

[@mariacamilacharry2217]

This was a great video! I’m also from Colombia so I love seeing my people succeed! I’m currently in school to become an MA but the end goal is definitely PA

[@LauraCoralPAC]

¡Buena suerte!

[@mariecaron1051]

Love your plants :)

[@BIBLE-a-s-m-r]

Laura power!!

[@Aya-ot9ml]

It’s like u read my mind! Thanks

[@aminullahqureshi9024]

Thanks for sharing your anion about my lovely field ❤

[@mariecaron1051]

Love your sweater!!!

[@LauraCoralPAC]

Thanks Marie!

[@ahmareenh18]

Loved the video! Can u do a day in the life of a pa?

[@LauraCoralPAC]

I will be working on these in the coming months! 😉

[@saraia8133]

This inspires me to look into this field, slowly building my path before entering a Pre PA program, I’m nervous and have had others even doctors tell me to go into nursing because I’m 28, lol and “take advantage of my youth” but Idk still finding what interests me and this so far is at the top.

[@LauraCoralPAC]

The PA field and career is more flexible than that of the MD approach. I've love and admired all the folks I have worked with.

[@daratyda551]

Thank for sharing

[@elnegro4855]

I'm considering becoming a pediatric pa but then i heard i needed medical experience and idk what to do 👍Maybe i'll take my core classes at a community college while getting certified as a medical assistant, then take a year or two off to gets those hours of experience, then go to college for a science degree, take a year off before going to pa school and then from there i hope to be employed.

[@Amatullah.574]

You could become a CNA and work while attending school. Hope it all goes well!

[@erinlowery1589]

Do you have to be a current cna?

[@israelchavez1267]

What are possible undergrad majors to consider before the PA program? Also how do non traditional students who are older go to PA school balance school with bills and being homeowners who may not have the choice to not work while in PA school

[@karthickraja3038]

I learned lots from ur video ☺️tqsm

[@LauraCoralPAC]

So glad you found it helpful!

[@spareld]

So my question for you. If after I get my license, and decided to go to another state. Do that mean I have to get re-licensed in another state?

[@abbya6575]

I’m currently a sophomore in college and I didn’t find out about the PA field until this year! I literally felt the same way when I found out about it like it fell from gods hands to me and all my prayers were answered lol! But I feel like I am so behind and late on many aspects. I’m finding it hard to find shadowing opportunities and preparing for the admissions process because of covid. any advice on how I can get start?

[@LauraCoralPAC]

I totally get where you’re coming from. There’s nothing wrong with taking a year to prepare your application. I would reach out to as many PAs as you can re shadowing opportunities. Joining a pre-pa or premed group can also help. Wishing you luck!

[@yasmine4464]

I’m 20 & just decided I want to be a PA Tim a CNA at a hospital but in a medical assistant program right now so that means I would have to start fresh after I complete the MA program & get my Bachelors degree to start my journey to becoming a Physician Assistant. Do you think with my age & me taking a GAP year after high school that it’s too late to get a bachelors degree & become a PA?

[@LauraCoralPAC]

Not at all! It’s never too late. Most PA’s are in their late 20s when they attend PA school, but a lot of programs have people in their 30s and 40s.

[@Scott-ff2oe]

Thanks.

[@valeriacortez8966]

Hello, thank you for this video. It was super helpful I’m considering pursuing this career. But as a female in her mid-20s, I’m worried about the short time in to start a family and juggling that work life balance. Do you feel that having this career but also 3 to 4 kids is possible?

[@LauraCoralPAC]

One of my favorite things about the PA field is the flexibility versus other advanced medical tracks. I've worked with many wonderful providers that have been able to both juggle families and work as a PA. Good luck!

[@08JkiLLA]

I have a kinesiology degree and planning to apply for PT school. Now I’m considering the PA FIELD.

[@LauraCoralPAC]

That’s awesome! Good luck!

[@toporisnash1324]

Exactly the same for me😭 but I’m gonna go PA

[@MrThelovechannel]

@RJVA Any update on what you decided on? I just graduated with a KIN degree, even completed my pre-reqs for PT school but now seriously considering the PA route

[@mike_zilla8604]

@@MrThelovechannel What did you decide on doing? I'm currently aspiring to become a PT.

[@starrhazel92]

I’m currently a CNA and trying to plan out my route I was wondering was prerequisites in mind, do you feel your degree in Biology was a benefit in PA school? I see a lot of people do kinesiology, bio? chemistry biology I would love to know your input on what degree in a bachelors prepare me more?

[@josueprado772]

Hi Laura, amazing video, everything very well explained, unfortunately I didn’t know about this career until a week ago, I’m from Ecuador, I graduated high school in the US, I always wanted to study medicine but because of the tuition I could do it in the US, so I’m currently finishing it in Ecuador, do you know any international medical graduate that has become a PA, if so, can you please help me contact him/her for the process? Muchas gracias, saludos desde Quito.

[@LauraCoralPAC]

Wishing you much luck, Josue! I don’t know any international medical graduates at this time.

[@mehetajfahim7216]

I need the same help as josue! Plz Help @laura coral

[@vhe452]

Hi josue i graduated medical school in México 2 years agosto, and im looking for the same info, where you able to get it ?

[@trinitysmith2226]

I'm currently in nursing school hoping to be a PA. Although NP's are able to open their own practice and PAs can't, I still want to learn the medical model and combine it with the nursing model to provide the best patient care.

[@SC-gp7kt]

That is very smart! I'm sure you'll do great 👏👏

[@allyu274]

I’m considering doing the same if CRNA doesn’t work out!! Plus the NP route means the possibility of finding my own preceptor and I don’t wanna go through that stress lol

[@user-pu4kw9if4m]

Laura, is true a PA needs always to stay with a supervisor, like a doctor? How is it? Could you explain, please ? Thanks a lot

[@GameOver321]

Great video, I was wondering if someone can help me with a question I have. I have my bachelors degree and almost all my prerequisites. I'm only missing several classes. I would like to take them at my local community College, I have seen in more than 1 PA program that they only accept classes/prerequisites from 4 yesr universities. Is this a common thing? Also, what are your guys opinions on retaking classes? For example, my worst science grade is AP1 with a C. Should I retake it? Thanks in advance and any help is appreciated.

[@maryhasaballa4052]

In high school, i had the choice between a pharmacist and the PA program. I regret not choosing the PA program. I feel like i chose the wrong answer on a test 😢😅.

[@LauraCoralPAC]

It is never too late! Life is full of surprises and choices, I've found people always find the path they were supposed to take even if it is not the fastest one ;)

[@madihamalik2593]

Hi Laura I'm a doctor from foreign medical school,. How can I apply??

[@Amatullah.574]

Do you HAVE to prescribe meds? Like is it a requirement where you are monitored to see if you are prescribing meds?

[@LauraCoralPAC]

Every place will be different. Many colleagues that I have worked with have worked in roles where prescriptions are not part of their job, you can also consider integrative health, which is more preventative focused rather than medication oriented. But as a PA you are allowed to prescribe.

[@88vansskater]

How often do you pick up vacation?

[@nayellid3187]

Do you have to take pre req classes?

[@Rohit-pd1gs]

I'm working medical practitioner in India Now wanted to be a PA . I have some questions So is it possible to talk?

[@sakthisakthi5523]

I'm studying PA in (tamilnadu) India. can I get job in USA after finishing my UG degree....or I should finish PG to got a job ....and which PA specialist are have more vacancy plss tell me.....

[@sangeethas4169]

Which department is best for PA?

[@kwakubush9529]

Please,my question is about the salary Do you get paid every month,or every year?

[@LauraCoralPAC]

It will depend on the business, but typically it is twice a month or every other week.

[@redwanahmed5709]

I have done my MBBS from Bangladesh. If I want to go in usa ,actually may be I am going in usa as my wife is usa resident...so if I want to work as physician assistant in usa what should I do?Is there any more course I have to do for physician assistant job in usa?and what about medical assistant.?I don't want to do usmle exam to be doctor there because it will be very hard for me...plz enlighten me by sharing the fruitful information.

[@brisanicole4105]

what PA school did you attend?

[@acsa6042]

What is the scope of a doctor(a foreign medical graduate)to work in US as a PA??

[@LauraCoralPAC]

I don’t have experience in this scenario, but I do believe you need to complete some form of schooling in the U.S.

[@acsa6042]

@@LauraCoralPAC thank u so much for replying

[@sandhiajoji4576]

Can u give some more explanation about the salary of PA??

[@LauraCoralPAC]

It’s highly variable, depending on specialty, experience, location, etc. But generally, starting salaries for full time PAs are 90K plus.

[@user-by5my4kx7l]

@@LauraCoralPAC Hi full time 8 hours daily for 5 days per week ???

[@brooklynebanks1497]

How often does a Derm PA have to work with needles?

[@LauraCoralPAC]

Every office is different! Each practice has its specialty. I've worked in places that do not use needles at all, while in other is it more common.

[@JenCheng1]

Isn’t there a saturation of PA in your area?

[@LauraCoralPAC]

Not as far as I know!

[@Rohit-pd1gs]

Hey Laura Is it possible to you guide me for PA admission?

[@aarav3564]

Can I do Physician Assistant after my bachlore degree in India which hold 3 years ? So m I eligible for this physician assistant course?

[@alex1994MD]

Can Bachelor's in Physical Therapy go to the PA school to obtain the Master's degree? Thank you!

[@donnawilliams4764]

PA schools don’t care as long as you have a bachelors degree. You just need direct patient care, volunteer hours, the pre-req courses and pass the pa-cat (this is new btw).

[@alex1994MD]

@@donnawilliams4764 thank you so much! If I have a bachelor's in English back from the Ukraine, do you think it is a good idea to apply for a PT school and skip on going to PTA, I never had biology or chemistry in college due to my major. Can I just take the courses I'm missing on to catch up, get ready for the entrance exam , or should J start from day 0?

[@ymtze5341]

I’m in my gap year… torn between PA and med school… any advice?

[@LauraCoralPAC]

PA was the choice for me due to the work/life balance, but both are awesome options to help people!

[@xhivaxx9418]

Can i know the duration of the whole PA course

[@LauraCoralPAC]

Most PA programs are 2-3 years long.

[@SanjayKumar-sh5qc]

Is there is any exams for PA from India to work on US

[@tahitahiii647]

Can I become PA after completing MBBS?

[@iloveseaturtles]

I'm working towards getting my psychology degree at the moment and considering this career... can i still apply to be a pa with a degree in psychology?

[@sarahokotcha4076]

yes! many people who major in psych go onto PA school. Its more about fulfilling PA prerequisites and less about which major you pursue. PA schools accept a wide range of different majors (much like medical school)

[@LauraCoralPAC]

I 100% agree!

[@iloveseaturtles]

thank you so much! 💟

[@lukerichardson6017]

I am doing the same thing! I am getting my bachelors in Psychology (a BA) but plan on dropping the minor I was originally pursuing so that I can take the PA school prerequisites!

[@chlee8985]

To be a Physician associate, do I have to be Registered Nurse first?

[@LauraCoralPAC]

Nope! You are thinking of NP, a PA can come from any background as long as they meet the school's required prereq's.

[@tonyherring7382]

I'm a high school senior and I wanted to become a PA at first, but I kept hearing that it's hard to find a job as one :(

[@haydenmoore4904]

Couldn't be further from the truth

[@bigp8871]

@@haydenmoore4904 do u think the career will be oversaturated soon? I feel like since nps are oversatured it might effect pas

[@haydenmoore4904]

@@bigp8871 Saturation tends to be a problem with many professions, including healthcare in some areas. It is highly dependent on location, specialty, etc. However, as of now, the job outlook for PA is one of the highest in the country (over 30%). This trend is increasing.

[@Lex-rc1gr]

@@bigp8871 yes it is already very over saturated and will continue to be so. Also specifically PA’s working in dermatology.

[@Lex-rc1gr]

As if NOW there is a high need but this profession has had lots of recent attention and as many more join PA programs and graduate that big gap will close. Everyone wants to be a PA now that it was on the world report/ news ranking. It is already very competitive and is only getting worse. Ask anyone who is a PA. There is a FLOOD of new grads.

[@Mj-kh8nk]

I have completed my pt in India can I do PA master in us …

[@TheSkinDoct]

Hii I'm Dr.Manas MBBS,DDVL from India... Can You Please Guide Me Regarding PA Course For An IMG Doctor... Thanks In Advance 🙏🙏

[@yoosafmuhammed9926]

Is MSc necessary

[@sushmithareddy1134]

Hii! I’m from India, can I know some of the colleges and universities providing PA course in America pls

[@Mariah-bf2uj]

A bachelor’s degree in any field (can be non science related) is required before applying to PA school. PA school provides a Master’s degree in Physician Assistant studies. There are many PA schools in each state in the US, but here are a few in Texas: Texas Tech Physician Assistant Program, Texas Tech Physician Assistant Program, UT Southwestern School of Health Professions, Baylor College of Medicine, UNT Health Science Center, University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio - UT Health San Antonio.

[@horrorpop3292]

I want to do psych

[@jingxu7767]

Are you able to work in different states after graduation?

[@LauraCoralPAC]

Yes! You just need to obtain a license in the new state. I’ll be posting a video about that next week! 😉

[@jingxu7767]

@@LauraCoralPAC Thank you so much, and I also want to know that do PAs have to work night shifts like nurses? Or can you just work day shifts when you just graduate from school?

[@sulfani8062]

Hi laura...am a physician from indonesia...i woried as a GP here in indonesia since 2006..i wanna moved to the US...how i can be PA in there? Is there some step can i get for to be a physician assistant?

[@reynettefausto2537]

Hi Sulfani I'm also from Indonesia and interested in this field :)

[@sulfani8062]

@@reynettefausto2537 oh nice...r u a doctor in indonesia?

[@reynettefausto2537]

@@sulfani8062 no I'm not but interested in medical related things

[@sulfani8062]

@@reynettefausto2537 oh i see...so would u like to tell me what is ur education background?

[@reynettefausto2537]

@@sulfani8062 Economic but it doesnt necessarily to be from medical background to be able to enter the PA career.

[@gilbert3922]

What are the conditions for Physician assistant to work in the United States?

[@LauraCoralPAC]

They range from place to place with varying responsibilities and roles. Some are high stress and very demanding (surgical) whereas others are less chaotic (outpatient clinics).

[@nayanalakshmi7319]

Can an Indian PA work in America?

[@pushpalathaignatious3696]

Does a PA student need to work under a physician ?

[@user-xw4vg1vy5e]

Most places, yes!

[@jacqualinesibbs2005]

Which course is better in Health?

[@LauraCoralPAC]

Anatomy classes are very useful!

[@willow6214]

hi! is degree in PA from india valid in the USA?

[@LauraCoralPAC]

I don’t think so. You’d have to complete schooling again here.

[@reynettefausto2537]

@@LauraCoralPAC is it enough to take 2 years community college to become a PA, or one needs to take Bachelor/Master degree? Because I have attained my Bachelor degree in my country and don't wish to spend more years on schooling concerning the budget and age too. Pls advice? Thanks.

[@ashabushshahid4416]

Hi I'm from Bangladesh. I'm a physician Assistant. I have completed three years diploma, Bachelor degree and Masters of Public Health (MPH). I'm a government employee as a Sub-Assistant Community Medical Officer in 06/04/2008 to 28/04/2023. I want to do Physician Assistant job in America. What can I do now. Please help me.

[@LauraCoralPAC]

Hi there fellow PA! I'm not an expert in international PA certificates, but do know you have to be certified in the U.S. to work here. Best of luck!

[@ainhussain8078]

What did you major in?

[@LauraCoralPAC]

Biology 🧪

[@shravanithete7065]

Hiee... I'm from India.... And I want to be PA in USA So can u suggest me any UG course in India....so that would lead me to do PA in USA

[@veganbutterbabyjesus3331]

Is there drug tests for this job

[@masudshaik9175]

Hii maam... I competed my bachelors in nursing in India... With 73% I would like join in physician assistant in us Which university is best for become PA My decision is right?

[@LauraCoralPAC]

Not sure about your specific situation. I would reach out to someone who’s done this in the past. Good luck!

[@rajmanitripathi7274]

PA can be done only after MBBS BAMS BHMS

[@xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx8825]

@@rajmanitripathi7274 bhai aapne pa kiya hai kya?

[@harshapasupuleti1722]

Is PA a stem course? Please reply thanks

[@LauraCoralPAC]

Hey! PA is typically a degree or major. There are many interesting courses within a PA program :)

[@FrancisArmah-bk5er]

Very informative🫡

[@imranqazi5422]

I, bsc PA completed from India 4y..what's process ..USA work..plz

[@LauraCoralPAC]

This is not my area of expertise, but I do know you have to be accredited in the United States to work as a PA.

[@juanleonardo3359]

Is it very expensive to go to PA school?

[@LauraCoralPAC]

Unfortunately yes! :'( However often PA school will lead to better opportunities after graduating!

[@everettcox5726]

Thank you for this video. This is my come to Jesus moment. Im applying tomorrow. :)

[@samy202007]

Hello!!! I have a question... Where did you study? I'm médico from Colombia but I'd like to study PA... I guess that to do the steps are so hard and long and I prefer study PA... Thanks for your attention and answer

[@fallback8314]

take a look at her. does it look like any teacher made her work?? she got free Bs and As in all her classes

[@samy202007]

@@fallback8314 I don't understand

[@fallback8314]

@@samy202007 her teachers were pervert who only passed her because they liked her and had romantic interest in her. but they were fools who never got nothing in return for giving her free good grades.

[@azfarthakur7602]

I am not sure if you're telling the truth if the salary was lower would you still do it? let's say 50k-75k ?

[@LauraCoralPAC]

Good question! I was very transparent in my video about lifestyle and salary being some of the reasons why this is a great career.

[@roythousand13]

She looks like Vanessa Hudgens!

[@aryaprakashjena1953]

Are pa earn more than 25000 dollar per month

[@mslittlexmiss6899]

in the uk PA'S cant prescribe.

[@ollieburtonuk]

As of right now this is correct, PAs can't prescribe medicines or order ionising radiation. It's quite likely that this will change as the profession goes through regulation with the GMC, but not clear as to exactly when that will be at the moment.

[@Alyssalh1117]

“I found Jesus moment”!🥺🥺🥺are you a Christian?

[@Michael-gs8og]

Sorry, but Dentistry is better. Flexible hours, good job outlook, paid slightly more, than PAs.

[@Aya-ot9ml]

Smart is the new sexy 🔥

[@waltzjumper]

I'm sure that the PA career is great for those who want to do things the easy way. Patients want providers who do things the hard way i.e. getting into medical school. No intelligent person sees a PA when they have the right to see a fully qualified M.D.

[@CreatedbyLeon]

Far from the truth.

[@a.d.w8385]

Whaaaaaaa?

[@waltzjumper]

@@CreatedbyLeon Getting into medical school is more difficult than getting into a for profit PA school. That's a fact! Patients must demand the right to see a fully qualified M.D.

[@CreatedbyLeon]

@@waltzjumper that’s an opinion though that’s not a fact. The things a doctor doesn’t need to take care of a PA can which gives doctors time to properly do their jobs.

[@waltzjumper]

@@CreatedbyLeon Thanks for agreeing that some P.A. schools are for profit.

[@fallback8314]

just by taking ONE look at her i see how she got HER degree(s).....most likely didn't have to take migraine headache inducing and useless calculus nor did she have to mercilessly endure shakespeare or hamlet. this is why i hate college and feel it's unnecessary. you are gonna have thirsty professors who favor particular students for stupid shallow reasons and give them a free pass and subsequently an easy pathway.

[@someguy9900]

ur insecurities reeks through the screen

[@fallback8314]

@@someguy9900 what insecurities genius?

[@someguy9900]

@@fallback8314 I’m not ur therapist kid

[@fallback8314]

@@someguy9900 thank GOD for THAT. since you obviously suck at diagnosing.

[@ashleycruz904]

So you're assuming that because she's attractive, the only way she could've obtained her degree was through her looks? Seek help.

[@DarkerSideX14X]

Nah show us YOUR paystubs!!