From a parent's point of view which is better MD or NP?

dgenthusiast · Dec 31, 2009

It depends who patients prefer. NPs tend to get better patient satisfaction because they tend to spend, on average, a few more minutes with the patients than physicians do. However, the majority of patients will probably be unable to understand the quality of the medical care they receive since the majority don't have a medical background, if that's what you mean.

You can definitely have time for family even if you pursue medicine. Even the first two years of med school shouldn't be all consuming unless you're doing something wrong. You lose control of your free time when you hit the clinical years and residency won't be easy either. Once you become an attending though, you can set a schedule that you want, as long as you're willing to take a hit in income.

BmoreCRNP · Dec 31, 2009

It depends on a few things. The scope of practice is different for NPs and MDs, and this varies by state. NPs are supposed to be competent enough to diagnose and treat common illnesses. As far as the school experience goes, you'll definately have a lot more work in Med school. It's just more intense because they have a lot more to cover than NPs do. They have a lot more clinical hours to complete as well. From what I understand, PA school is more intense than NP school, and that's because they don't separate into specialties like NP school does. For example, you can be an Acute Care NP, Family NP, Pediatric NP, Women's Health NP, etc. I believe PA's touch on Acute, Primary, and Pediatric care all in one program. I can't say which one is better or worse. That's a decision you really have to make based on your situation, and what professional goals you have. Basically if you simply want to diagnose and treat common illnesses in whatever setting, an NP is just fine. However, if you want to ensure that you'll be completely autonomous, then MD is the way to go.

georgiapeachNP · Dec 31, 2009

I can't comment on comparing methods of education. I have always been within a nursing track. I think, in addition to what others have said, an important thing to consider is the job AFTER the degree. I have many NP friends that are run over by physicians and requirements. I on the other hand work for a physician that believes family always comes first. For that reason I wouldn't dream of going to med school, but I'm sure there are NP's out there that think, for the work they do, they should've gone on and gotten paid for it!

gagesmommy · Dec 31, 2009

Thanks for all the responses I value the point of views!

allsmiles2008 · Dec 31, 2009

As a parent, I have had great experiences with both the MD and NP. When the kids go in for their yearly physicals it really doesn't matter. I do have a special needs child, who,when I am wanting a referral to see another specialist, I prefer to see the MD who can see the child, then get the process started ASAP, without having to ask for permission from anyone else to get us referred. When we bring the kids in for a respiratory infection, or if they are just not feeling well and nothing helps, or when the asthma is flaring up, or when we're out of breathing tx meds and need to make an appointment to get this filled, we are FINE with seeing the NP.

As a parent, it depends what you are wanting at the time. If its an "I need to see someone right away" and the only available person is an NP, we are FINE with that option. If its a "I need to get so and so paperwork done, or so and so referrals done" then we like to see the MD to just get it done right away.

Really, its not the MD or NP name that makes a difference to me, it is whether they are listening to my concerns, making appropriate referrals, being thorough in their assessments, appear competent & know what they're talking about, and if they are taking the time to do teaching. There are some MDs in the clinic I avoid because they always seem rushed, so I would rather see the NP or a different MD anyday, than to have the "rushed" MD see my child.

In the end, its not really about having MD or NP after your name, its more about the type of MD or NP you are or will become. There are some AWESOME NPs and MDs in my clinic!!!!!!!!