RDH⏩PA Posted June 22, 2016 Share Posted June 22, 2016 would you still go to PA school? Why or why not? Pros and cons of the profession? Thanks for your insight. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
CAAdmission Posted June 22, 2016 Share Posted June 22, 2016 If I knew 20 years ago what I know today, I would probably skip PA school and invent the iPhone. Then I would move to Korea and invent the "Gangnam Style" dance: Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
UGoLong Posted June 22, 2016 Share Posted June 22, 2016 I went to PA school in my late 50s and don't regret it in the least; it has been the adventure of a lifetime. It has given me the opportunities to both practice and now teach. I'm 70 now and there is no way I would have worked this long -- and still be enjoying it -- in one of my old careers. Going to medical school in middle age -- even if it were possible -- would have cut me off from seeing my family grow. Can't miss that; that's why I'm here! If I was young -- in college now -- I really don't know. The profession -- and perhaps medicine in general -- is an unsettled place at present that will probably look considerably different at the end of a newly-started 20 year career. I am one PA working for one doc and I really like that model, but much of medicine is corporate now and jobs like mine are less common these days. Also, while the PA profession is making good strides in directing its growth, it is not unified anywhere near the degree that other advanced practice providers are. In this forum and in other places, you see younger people debating going to PA school or medical school. There are advantages to both paths and it's a personal decision. Consider it long and hard before you make your own decision. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
GetMeOuttaThisMess Posted June 22, 2016 Share Posted June 22, 2016 I went to PA school in my late 50s and don't regret it in the least; it has been the adventure of a lifetime. It has given me the opportunities to both practice and now teach. I'm 70 now and there is no way I would have worked this long -- and still be enjoying it -- in one of my old careers. Going to medical school in middle age -- even if it were possible -- would have cut me off from seeing my family grow. Can't miss that; that's why I'm here! If I was young -- in college now -- I really don't know. The profession -- and perhaps medicine in general -- is an unsettled place at present that will probably look considerably different at the end of a newly-started 20 year career. I am one PA working for one doc and I really like that model, but much of medicine is corporate now and jobs like mine are less common these days. Also, while the PA profession is making good strides in directing its growth, it is not unified anywhere near the degree that other advanced practice providers are. In this forum and in other places, you see younger people debating going to PA school or medical school. There are advantages to both paths and it's a personal decision. Consider it long and hard before you make your own decision. I applaud you for having reached out and taken the chance on a new career at that stage in life. Here I am in my mid/late 50's and I'm counting down the days to not change careers but to just get out and maybe do something for the fun of it and not because I have too (have no idea what that would be). It is very interesting how ones' perspective is so different from individual to individual. Me, I feel like at this stage I'm already spending more time on reflection than on looking forward while others see it as a new opportunity in life with plenty of time to do so. Guess I'm a 70 something in a 50 something body. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
TWR Posted June 22, 2016 Share Posted June 22, 2016 The first 18 years of my PA career were wonderful in Queens, NY. The last 12.5 years have not. If I could turn back the hands of time I would have become a veterinarian which I almost did many years ago. Medicine has changed dramatically and continues to do so. Those in power (MD/DO) will not make room for or admit that we can do their job including insurance companies that reimburse at a lesser rate. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Moderator True Anomaly Posted June 22, 2016 Moderator Share Posted June 22, 2016 I would definitely do it again. At this point, if I had another career to go into, it would be something in the culinary world- but to work my way up to the lifestyle I currently enjoy with a similar salary and days of working would take a LONG time by being a chef. Besides, I kinda like keeping food as more of a hobby than a career Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
UGoLong Posted June 22, 2016 Share Posted June 22, 2016 If you talk with someone at the end of their career -- whatever it was -- they will have the perspective of the changes that took place (or didn't and maybe should have). They will remember the early days when they were full of enthusiasm, I suspect. For me, careers have a lifespan. Towards the end -- whatever it is that defines the end -- it's time to move on and do something else. I've been through that cycle several times during my working life. It doesn't mean that the career was bad for you, only that it's time to move on to whatever is next for you. Something that might renew your enthusiasm. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
delco714 Posted June 22, 2016 Share Posted June 22, 2016 If you talk with someone at the end of their career -- whatever it was -- they will have the perspective of the changes that took place (or didn't and should of). They will remember the early days when they were full of enthusiasm, I suspect. For me, careers have a lifespan. Towards the end -- whatever it is that defines the end -- it's time to move on and do something else. I've been through that cycle several times during my working life. It doesn't mean that the career was bad for you, only that it's time to move on to whatever is next for you. Something that might renew your enthusiasm. A wise man once said, if you're the same person at 50 as you were at 20, you did something wrong and wasted 30 years. People adapt, change, grow, etc. Perfectly natural to not fit a chosen career anymore! Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
GetMeOuttaThisMess Posted June 22, 2016 Share Posted June 22, 2016 If you talk with someone at the end of their career -- whatever it was -- they will have the perspective of the changes that took place (or didn't and should of). They will remember the early days when they were full of enthusiasm, I suspect. For me, careers have a lifespan. Towards the end -- whatever it is that defines the end -- it's time to move on and do something else. I've been through that cycle several times during my working life. It doesn't mean that the career was bad for you, only that it's time to move on to whatever is next for you. Something that might renew your enthusiasm. Good insight. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
iafsp409 Posted June 22, 2016 Share Posted June 22, 2016 I would probably choose another field - something within the realms of science, technology, or maybe accounting. This has less to do with the profession (although it has a few issues that bug me from time to time) and more to do with my miscalculation of how much I would enjoy practicing (not studying, which I loved!) medicine. I made a longer post about this a while back. Being a PA is a great, well-compensated career but, like every job, it is not for everyone. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Lauren R Posted June 22, 2016 Share Posted June 22, 2016 If I could do it over again, I would absolutely go to PA school. Every job has its pros and cons, but as a physician assistant, you are ready to start your professional career at a young age, learn a lot of truly valuable information, have a ton of versatility in your profession, make a good salary, and have the ability to do truly meaningful work. Sometimes I noticed people are frustrated by not getting as much respect as physicians, but I don't think it is worth our time to dwell on that because physician assistants get a tremendous amount of respect. Hate your job for another reason? Go to the next one, switch fields! PA school can be a killer, but any experience is what you make of it. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
BruceBanner Posted June 22, 2016 Share Posted June 22, 2016 While I dont feel medicine is my calling, I dont regret PA school and I feel I made the right choice. I get to see a lot of variety, get paid well, have a fair amount of professional respect and sometimes get to help people in a meaningful way. About every 3-4 months I go through a phase where I'm just fed up with patient care and the rat race of a 40 hour workweek. Honestly though, there is nothing else I could do right now that would afford me this lifestyle and professional standing. I feel really fortunate to be at a place where the grass is about as green as it gets for a PA, and it makes sense to ride it out until I'm ready to retire or change careers. I agree with UGoLong that careers have a lifespan. There is no shame in moving on when it has run it's course. Looking back, the only thing I would change is I would go to an in-state college so I'd have less debt. Also I would start playing the drums much sooner than my 30's, and minor in music instead of chemistry! Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
DizzyJ Posted June 22, 2016 Share Posted June 22, 2016 I would have gone to vet school like TWR.....I worked in veterinary medicine years before PA school and applied to vet school. Vet school at the time, and likely still is, harder to get into then PA school and med school. I have much enjoyed practicing medicine and the experiences I have had. I think after finishing my doctorate and transition to a mix of admin and clinical practice it will be more my style. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Reality Check 2 Posted June 23, 2016 Share Posted June 23, 2016 If I knew then what I know now..... Would have ditched the high school/college boyfriend and had more confidence in myself. Probably would have ended up in med school instead of that icky business degree I wasted years on. Probably would have considered veterinary school more. I would have been more bold (kinda scary if you knew me) in my younger years and demanded more of myself and others. But, wouldn't have my husband or my kids if I went back. I am good at what I do and there is fulfillment and a decent wage that supports my family. Now, I am in career twilight - not as exciting day to day and some days downright cumbersome. Would love to entrepreneur something 180 different like a hardware store or a doggy day care/store. We will see what the future brings..... Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Reality Check 2 Posted June 23, 2016 Share Posted June 23, 2016 PS --- husband is NOT the mentioned boyfriend..... No regrets w hubby - more of wasted chances in youth based on a guy...... Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
RDH⏩PA Posted June 23, 2016 Author Share Posted June 23, 2016 Just little background about me. Been a dental hygienist for almost 29 years. Love it, working more than ever, my hand not too happy right now. Took me two years to get these positions within the last 3 months; dream job-probably not. Decided to pursue PA since I was unable to find a quality job in that time, so went back to school to complete preq. I've been offered an interview, which I'm very excited about but there's that little shadow of doubt that I should take a seat if offered a spot. I know jumping the gun but looking at all the pros and cons. I would be 50 when I graduate, not a big thing don't feel that "old" , but the big thing no income for 28 months and a loan would be waiting for me plus my daughter is entering her 2nd year of college. Oh and my husband and I would be apart for the duration except for any breaks. I love medicine, love treating pts, love volunteering at the ED and shadowing the PAS. I love the flexibility of the PA, I'm use to working under a doctor and not having the ability to practice without "supervision". Wages? I make between 40-48 per hour now, is it worth it financially? Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Ridiculopathy Posted June 23, 2016 Share Posted June 23, 2016 Been an internal med PA for 10 years. Would have been a vet instead; especially since i lost my 6 y/o son-dog who was born with idiopathic megaesophagus (only had gtube feedings via mic-key) and died from t cell lymphoma few mos ago. The megaesophagus was never an issue. My heart still hurts. But sometimes i think of going to vet school but im 40 y/o. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
anewconvert Posted June 23, 2016 Share Posted June 23, 2016 Been an internal med PA for 10 years. Would have been a vet instead; especially since i lost my 6 y/o son-dog who was born with idiopathic megaesophagus (only had gtube feedings via mic-key) and died from t cell lymphoma few mos ago. The megaesophagus was never an issue. My heart still hurts. But sometimes i think of going to vet school but im 40 y/o. I'm sorry about your pup. They always leave too early. A classmate of mine has a g/f in vet school. A decent portion of her class is over 40 y/o. With your experience in medicine you'd make an appealing candidate, you'd just have to go into with your eyes wide open. Small animal vets are not in short supply... Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
RDH⏩PA Posted June 23, 2016 Author Share Posted June 23, 2016 It's amazing how many PA would like to be a Vet. I say go for it if you really want it Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Maverick87 Posted June 23, 2016 Share Posted June 23, 2016 Been an internal med PA for 10 years. Would have been a vet instead; especially since i lost my 6 y/o son-dog who was born with idiopathic megaesophagus (only had gtube feedings via mic-key) and died from t cell lymphoma few mos ago. The megaesophagus was never an issue. My heart still hurts. But sometimes i think of going to vet school but im 40 y/o. I love animals too, but definitely don't be a vet....unless you love med school level debt, less pay than you make now, way less respect than you have as a PA, and even more annoying patient (owners) trying to tell you how to do your job. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
UGoLong Posted June 23, 2016 Share Posted June 23, 2016 My daughter was a vet. Loved the animals but didn't like it when the owners didn't want to follow her suggestions. Kind of like being in pediatrics to a degree. She went back for a PhD and became a pathologist. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
cinntsp Posted June 23, 2016 Share Posted June 23, 2016 I'm just under the two year mark and am loving life and very happy with my decision to become a PA. I work only half of the year if not counting PTO, which allows me plenty of time to do the things I love(especially traveling). I have an excellent salary and a job with a good degree of autonomy in a hospital where I am appreciated by the staff and patients. I met personal goals including doing a fellowship and plan to sit for the hospital medicine CAQ in a couple of months. My student loan debt is getting knocked out fast. I'm tempted to go back and do a second fellowship in critical care in a few years for the hell of it and because I love medicine. Life as a PA is good; no regrets here. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
DogLovingPA Posted June 23, 2016 Share Posted June 23, 2016 Dinene Manz.... looking strictly at finances, if I was in your position, knowing what I know now there is no way in hell I would go to PA School. You'll make slightly more as a PA (I currently make $50/hr) but I pay $1680/month in PA school loans. For the first 10 years out of school, you will actually be making less than you do now. And your stress will be double (For many reasons). oh, and I work two jobs to try to pay off loans and max out retirement contributions (I had no prior debt). Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
fishbum Posted June 23, 2016 Share Posted June 23, 2016 is it worth it financially? No. Tuition=$80,000 Lost Income (@$40/hr)=$186,000 Total cost=$266,000 If you work until 65, you'd need to make an additional $17,733/year just to break even. That's a salary of $97,733 to $113,733. This doesn't factor in interest if you finance your tuition. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
dilemma84 Posted June 23, 2016 Share Posted June 23, 2016 i was recently accepted to my first choice PA program (was wait listed for awhile). Class starts in less than 2 months. I estimated on the low end it'll cost me 110k after i finished. I have no prior debt and i saved about 30k. I'm currently working as a teacher, 181 days a year for $60k with full pension and benefits (salary only goes up every year according to my union salary guide). I get $43 per hour after school activities and such. The school pay for my graduate credits and will increase my salary after i earn masters or doctorate degrees. Looking through the forum, the years it takes to pay off PA School loan is crazy and I don't know how my schedule would be after the program. It's a privilege to be a pa, but so is being a teacher. I love both professions. Yes, PAs make more after graduation but you end up loaning so much money plus interests. Can I get some input on this? So much rewards being a PA, but as always for any profession, there's always pros and cons. Any advice would be greatly appreciated! Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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