CRNA vs MD

[RickTodd11C, RN]

-Former Infantry Soldier (11B) 2011-2015

-Nursing student, ADN December 2018

-Anatomy/Physiology tutor employed through college.

-Age: 24

-VA disability rating: 70%

My conundrum: I have not utilized any VA benefits (post-9/11 or Voc Rehab) I have been fortunate to subsidize education with grants, as well as, scholarships. So my RN degree will be covered, debt free. I also receive 1388.00 a month for my service-connected disability. I do not feel satisfied with the RN role, although I respect the workforce. I entertained A/G ACNP for the autonomy, work/life balance. For a while I was hard-pressed to pursue my CRNA. I am aware of the CC experience necessary, chemistry prerequisites, and DNP requirements.

Now I am having doubts, and the MD route is looking very handsome. Although I may be able to pay for Medical School through the VA this is not a guarantee. The problem lies in the fact the RN pathway is not congruent with the lines of medical school. I would have to attain BSN, as well as: Chem I,II, Physics I,II, Bio I, II, Orgo I,II and the MCAT. I hear the MD route is not a well balanced option. As medicine will consume your time.

I'm having conflicting feelings on whether I should persue medicine, or an advanced nursing role.

I always strive to be the best I can, and I feel somewhat hollow on nursing. I know I shouldn't feel this way.

Do any of you feel this conflict.

I would be the first healthcare professional in my family.

All comments welcome.

[Ginger's Mom, MSN, RN]

I would start your premed courses now, I would not take the courses at the community college though since it is frowned upon for MED school admissions. if you are interested in becoming a physician I would go to student doctor.net for more information. I am guessing you have a high gpa and do well on standardized tests. Be prepared not to have much of the life for 4 years MED school and at least 3 years residency.

[RickTodd11C, RN]

Thank you for your response!

[Flatline, BSN, RN]

First, what do you want to do? I am not talking about job but what do you want out of a career and life? What is it you are looking for? That should first help to guide which direction to go because they are very different career paths. It is like saying you want to be either a plumber or electrician, granted they both work to build houses but they are very, VERY different paths.

I have known many soldiers that come out looking for a leadership role similar to the one they had while in but get confused with the TV stereotypes.

[RickTodd11C, RN]

I also understand there are very competent NP's and ill-competent physicians. With lobbying and legislative traction it seems the line between physician and NP begins to blur. DEA license, autonomy, Dx rights,

I do appreciate the comments so far.

[sallyrnrrt, ADN, RN]

Think about osteopath, a physician, with more of a wholistic approach....

Best wishes

And Thankyou for your service.