newbie_clinical

Thank you for all your responses to such a broad question. I have PhD, which means I went to college eons ago so I'll have to find out which course(s) I would have to take again. As a researcher, I only interact with research docs & nurses which I think is probably very different from their jobs in the clinical setting. I'm thinking of shadowing a doc, nurse and PA sometime to figure out which is the best route for me - if any. I've a lot to think about...and thanks for telling me 35 is not too old to think about pursuing a career in these fields. It's hard to think that way when all the MDs that comes through our department are younger than me!

Hello everyone, I am currently a clinical researcher and for the past few years I have been contemplating a transition into an applied clinical career. I've gone through too many years of education so I want to be sure of the direction I am heading towards. I have worked with nurses and physicians in the research setting, and after looking at data for almost 10 years I am craving the satisfaction that these practitioners get from working with people. I am willing to go back to school again, but I don't know what is the best decision for me. I know that some of friends who are nurses are frustrated at the treatment they get at times from some physicians (lack of respect etc - but I know that there is variability depending on the institution). I am 35, and am not sure if I can commit to the many years of medical school (let alone get in to medical school). I am not sure I want to go back to college to get a bachelor's degree in nursing either. I've talked to some PA that are really happy in their jobs, but I don't quite get the difference between being an RN/NP vs PA. At the end of the day, if the career is right I am willing to put in the work. I apologize for the long post, but I would appreciate any feedback. At 35 (have no kids and no plans for any) what makes more sense - Med school, nursing programs or PA programs? Thanks!