OrangeSN

I'm curious to know how nurses feel about working in the same hospital network where they get their own medical care. Any reason to avoid?

Thank you to everyone who replied. Lots for me to think about.

Which is more advantageous for a wannabe FNP that wants to keep the door open to teach someday? MSN for FNP and then work on PhD, or pursue the DNP directly after the BSN?

Thank you all for your insights. You have given me some great points to consider. It does not sound like any of you are disappointed with your career choice, which is reassuring. Family practice is my goal for many reasons such as variety of cases, cradle-to-grave care, et cetera. If I went the MD route, this is what I would chose to do (no intentions of being a subspecialist). FNP would also get me there. I posted to see if there were possibly compelling reasons not to chose FNP. I don't hear any so far other than difference in pay. I'm not motivated by money so this is not a consideration for me. And you're right, I can gain the extra scientific knowledge by reading on my own. On other boards, I've read some disparaging remarks made by some med students and MDs about the knowledge base of NPs (or what they perceive to be a lack thereof). I've read things like "they don't know what they don't know", "they have just enough knowledge to be dangerous", and "I would only trust my family to be treated by a physician". Do any of you find your education to be looked down upon by other clinicians in real life? This doesn't bother me, I'm just curious.

This is my first post, but I've been reading the boards for some time. My question for current NPs is: If you could go back in time, would you still become a NP or would you go the MD route instead? Why am I asking? I am close to finishing my BSN and want to keep going to be a family practice clinician. I am torn between FNP and MD. FNP: I like the holistic approach. Builds on my current education. Less $ in tuition and less time. Can work while in school. MD: The job of a family practice MD is not much different than a FNP. What draws me is the increased scientific background and the increased autonomy. Your feedback is appreciated.