What is one major difference between a PA and a Nurse Practitioner (NP)?

One significant distinction between a Physician Assistant and a Nurse Practitioner is that Nurse Practitioners are typically required to have prior experience as Registered Nurses (RNs) before entering their advanced practice roles. This foundation in nursing provides NPs with a unique perspective on patient care, emphasizing holistic treatment and preventative health measures.

In contrast, PAs can come from various backgrounds and do not need to have RN experience to enter the PA program. This difference in educational pathways can impact the clinical focus and philosophy of care each profession embodies. While both PAs and NPs are qualified to provide patient care, their training and initial career stages diverge significantly, highlighting the importance of prior nursing experience in the development of Nurse Practitioners.