Thank you for this video! I have been a PA in family medicine and urgent care for 7 years in the US and my partner is about to finish nursing school in the Spring. Once he gets some experience as an RN here we are going to look into moving to New Zealand (: such an incredible country!
Thank you for this. I considered doing this years ago; even considered law school (didn't know that you can do this with a JD). Your channel is GREAT! Omar Abdul-Malik DHEd MPAS PA-C since 2000 🙂👋🏽👨🏽⚕️
That's really hard to answer as it depends on the facility and where it's located. However, I would say in general that private corrections medicine pay should be fairly equal to family medicine pay. Jobs with the federal government can pay significantly less, $80,000 - $1000,000, but often come with structured pay raises and great benefits.
@@workinonit7508 Well, it's complicated when it comes to federal jobs. I agree that $120,000 should be minimum, but you have to look at the whole package. Some federal jobs come with housing allowances, which is tax free money, and other benefits. Also, it may take several years, but with the raise structure, long time PAs in the federal system could end up making more than private practice. And of course, you can't forget the health insurance and retirement benefits which are usually significantly better than the private sector. So, like I said....complicated! 😄 You might be interested in this video where I interview a PA who worked in the federal prison system for years, then he went to the FDA. He did this work while being in the Public Health Service. He talks some about pay and benefits and why he thinks it is a good deal. ru-vid.com/video/%D0%B2%D0%B8%D0%B4%D0%B5%D0%BE-vyObD_7O_j8.htmlsi=IwRaoDEfryzhFzS-
Hi. I'm a Washington, DC-based PA with a doctorate of Health Education (A.T. Still 11'). I've been a PA for almost 25 years. This is a GREAT discussion! 🙂👋🏽👨🏽⚕️
As a 10 year admitting PA at an acute care hospital 8-10 is a lot. Bear in mind some admits are easy some are acute and need more time and care. I am retiring in 3 months thank god.
Thanks for the information. It's always difficult when you don't know what the standard is and you are being made to feel like you aren't doing enough!
All US government jobs are posted at usajobs.gov. However, check the link above in the description box to take you directly to the State Department careers page. You can sign up for notifications of job openings on that page. If you haven't already seen this video all about working at the embassies, you will want to check it out! (There are also more links under this video) ru-vid.com/video/%D0%B2%D0%B8%D0%B4%D0%B5%D0%BE-Pt9jolVLcfU.html
@@TheMedicineCouchYou post a video it seems like every month or two about how bad healthcare career is. Why not just get out of it and find something else? You know deep down it truly sucks and continues to suck. Every time I go to the doctor I feel like I’m being treated by a bunch of zombies just running through the motions of what some higher up is making them do. They definitely don’t act like they’re really thinking for themselves. For example, LDL is elevated some…let’s prescribe a statin. They’re only doing what they’ve been taught rather than actually thinking deeper outside the box. Go research LDL and all the research on this…big question is: Does LDL truly cause heart disease and heart attacks? If it does then why does it seem like every old person on these statins still have all these health problems around their heart? Is the statin really doing anything of real value? If anything it’s damaging their liver and kidneys and ruining their hair. Seriously go study LDL research. And please do not just look at the AHA website that is likely tied to the prescription drug industry.
That’s why I am trying to build this channel and business surrounding it. I would like to never have to work in medicine again. Unfortunately, as it is, I still have to pick up shifts from time to time in order to support myself and pay off the almost $70k in student loans that remain! Also, the answer cannot be for everyone to leave medicine because we all need people who can treat us. However, in order for people to stay, they need to be able to have some happiness in their jobs. I believe that comes through finding their right fit in medicine, so I am trying to show them different options. As far as LDL and statins, I completely agree. When I practiced primary care medicine, I rarely wrote for statins and did my best to counsel on diet and exercise in order to help people get as healthy. I personally have been doing intermittent fasting for years, and I started eating a ketovore diet in the last few weeks. I would love to try going full carnivore for a while. I think there are some compelling things about this way of eating. I also do not believe that LDL is responsible for plaque in the arterial vessels. I believe inflammation , caused mainly from the highly processed, high sugar, terrible food we are eating is the biggest problem driving coronary vessel disease.
@@TheMedicineCouchAwesome response! I’m so glad to hear this because my LDL is always higher at my visits and now that I’m 39 they are trying to consider a statin. I honestly think cholesterol levels are far more genetic in origin than they are from food. But yes highly processed junk food and too much sugar is likely the main culprit of wrecking the lining of blood vessels combined with a sedentary lifestyle.
@@TheMedicineCouch You know what I have discovered? About 99% of these healthcare higher-ups that manage the system don’t give a gnat’s rear end about the patient overall. All they truly care about is making sure the flow of documentation is on point so that reimbursement flows and the cash keeps pouring in. As far as they’re concerned, they’d probably rather the patient stay sick to some degree so they’ll keep needing to use the medical system…more money made for the hospitals and other establishments.
I am Kandavel from India I am planning to send my daughter abroad for higher studies. She is currently pursuing her bachelor's degree in homoeopathy BHMS(bachelor of homoeopathic medicine and surgery). She is in her final year now and she will be completing her course by 2026. We are looking for the course Physician Assistant in Texas. I need some suggestions from you.
This link takes you to the Texas state PA association where all the PA programs in Texas are listed. tapa.org/page/texas-pa-programs I don't personally know about many of them, but I will tell you what I think are some of the top programs. I would say UT Southwestern in Dallas is the premiere program in the state. I also think Hardin-Simmons, Baylor, and University of North Texas are also excellent programs. Unfortunately, I would not recommend my alma mater, University of Texas, Medical Branch. It's not terrible, but I think there are some inherent problems with the school. Anyway, You can go to each school's website and they will give you all the information you need about each pragram.I hope this is what you were looking for from me!
I started my first PA job August 1983 in Houston in Internal Medicine at a multispecialty group practice where there were already about 20 PAs. I was right out of PA school with no student loan debt and my salary was $17,200 which is about $52,000 in today’s money. They paid for my white coats and I received $750/year and 5 days off/ year for CME. By 1992 my salary was $60,000. PAs were licensed in Texas in 1994. Interesting video!
I love when long time PAs share their perspective. It's easy to complain and be frustrated by the state of things, but whenever I hear the prospective of those that have grown this profession, it makes me realize how far we have come! Thank you!
Solid video. It may be interesting to share I work in an undeserved inner city ER in the northeast and am receiving a state sponsored loan forgiveness package effectively raising my salary from 140 to 180k per year. I have realized salary alone won't build wealth for us so I am using my younger years to generate cash for investments... also seems like the new AAPA president is a fighter so they got some CME $$$ from me this year.
That is fantastic! Yes, those loan forgiveness programs are great. Smart of you to take advantage of it and to mindful about investing while you are young, and glad to hear you are supporting AAPA. I know they are not perfect, but hopefully we'll see some great things as more PAs get involved!
Thank you for another great video! It seems that PAs are underpaid for the work that you do, hopefully that will increase at a higher rate soon. ❤ to PAs
Aww, thank you! Yes, if you really look at what different professions make, we are underpaid based on our level of training and responsiblity. However, so are teachers, police officers, nurses, etc, so I do recognize how fortunate we are.
Thank you so much for providing this information! I've taken the PANRE 3 times over my 24 year career and i have debated on taking the PANRE-LA, it sounds like a much lower stress option. Do you prefer the LA?
You're welcome! I don't know if you've seen that I have a whole playlist about the PANRE-LA. You can look through the titles to see if there are any others you want to watch. I will be making more in the upcoming months, including one where I give my final thoughts after completely finishing the test this next quarter! So, watch for my answer then. ru-vid.com/group/PL6DyVIDYBzVNbqTjTqbIOv9ub-V4y4Gwp&si=Gak3mbG9VI0LBMmK
Sorry to hear that, but unfortunately, you are not alone! I hope this video gave you some things to think about or reinforced thoughts you already had! I wish you all the best!
This is such an important topic, especially for those of us "older folks" who may feel that we're "too old" to change. I like being a PA because I can go into research, teaching, health administration, "wellness" industry, etc. It's GREAT! 🙂👋🏾👨🏽⚕️
I have listened to talks from the RAL academy and they say that this can be a fairly hands off way to make income if you hire someone else to be the manager. You can own the business without it being a full time job.
I am a home health PTA and although some of the homes are disgusting to go in and do have occasional aggressive dogs, I still prefer driving around to homes any day of the week over being inside a nursing home or hospital
@@TheMedicineCouch Exactly! It definitely gives you that time to clear your head and onto the next client/patient. Sometimes inside a facility there’s a lot going on and can be difficult to focus especially if you have a touch of ADHD or something haha
@@TheMedicineCouch What does make me quite angry at times is the MD or PA is the ordering provider and part of the healthcare team with these home health visits, yet as the PTA I NEVER get to speak a single word to the MD or PA themselves. It’s almost like the MD or PA is not allowed to speak for themselves and it’s always some random nurse that I might get to talk to. American healthcare is so weird sometimes how the system is set up. So much could be cleared up if we could just talk to the ordering physician rather than relaying a message through the front desk staffer who is now eating her 6th Dunkin Donut for the day who passes it along to a nurse and then finally the doc. I often call these physician offices and literally get out on hold 4-5 times and have waited for so long just to leave a message and that’s on the provider line. It’s so silly and a joke of a system. Things would be so much easier if you could just speak to the doc or PA.
@@user-hn9qg5qm3o I totally hear you and can completely understand your frustration! You are right, it would be best if you could communicate directly with the PA/NP and MD. It would be better for the patients, for you, and for the PA/NP/MD. However, as you said, our system has lots of problems. As a PA who has worked family practice, all I can say is that for the most part, we hardly have time to use the restroom, let alone actually eat a lunch. (Or rather, we may scarf down some food while charting and addressing our in-box). The point is, we have to have someone take messages and return messages because we are being forced to see more patients than we can humanly handle. Most primary care providers are having to chart at home on nights and weekends just to keep up with everything. So, I don't know what the answer is now that business and finance run healthcare! One thing I know all of us need to do, though, is not attack others working in the system. i.e. the front desk staff. Trust me, I am guilty of taking my frustrations out on others too, but let's be kind to each other.🙂
@@TheMedicineCouch I agree! I was just being silly about eating the 6th donut for the day haha But yea, in all honesty the communication system in healthcare is pretty messed up. And the way there’s a push to maximize profits for the healthcare establishment is just wicked at the expense of sick and dying people. I saw how pharmacy actually killed my dad. He was a pharmacist and he did not get to eat a healthy lunch..no breaks..barely even time to have a bowel movement or take a pee. His lunch would sometimes be a bag of Lays potato chips and a Coke. Isn’t it crazy how the ones who are the “health promoters” are often very unhealthy?
I'm happy she is enjoying her new role, but I would not want to do that personally. Too much liability and too many hours. I just got into a DMSc program and will try to go for an MSL position.
There are definitely a lot of things to think about with this type of business. MSL can be a great position! I wish you all the best with that. If you haven't yet, you should check out this video.ru-vid.com/video/%D0%B2%D0%B8%D0%B4%D0%B5%D0%BE-wZeUaVPTGFs.htmlsi=PNgPjrI0rpdnt3O-. It has lots of great information about being an MSL.
Well, at least you gave it a good go. The best experience is bought experience, meaning at least you can actually say that you have did that and done that. Example, when I was young ICU ER CCU were the areas I wanted to work because there is never a dull moment. Now, approaching 47, I am concentrating on public health clinic and outreach. Something interesting but slower and more defined. Do what works for you and where you can be the most effective. Its ok friend! This is not called failure but a "testing of the water moment." It was not your speed and that is ok.
I totally agree. You have to try stuff in life, see what works and what doesn't. You never know what great things you'll stumble upon and what lessons you'll learn along the way. Thank you so much for watching and taking the time to leave your lovely comment!
Hi - thanks for posting. Is there a way for me to connect with Dave? His background sounds identical to mine and I am considering a transition to EP. I'd like to talk to him and get some insight. Thank you!
this was great! Thank you for the level of detail in discussing palliative care, that really sets you apart from some of the other content I've seen on this subject!
Why thank you so much! Every video I try my best to get to the real "meat & potatoes" of the topic. Thank you for letting me know that you think I succeeded! I appreciate you watching and commenting.
I'm very interested in the IR specialty. At the time of this comment I'm about to begin my second year of PA school and in January of 2025 I will begin my clinical roations. I have requested IR as my elective rotation and I'm really looking forward to it. In the interview PA Mathes mentioned they don't typically hire new graduatied PAs. However, I am not a typical PA student and more non-traditional at the age of 48. I have over 20yrs experience in healthcare as a retired Flight Paramedic. I'm hoping that puts me in a position to be capable to take on the challenges that come with type of specialty. Thank you for such a great interview and video.
Hope you really enjoy your clinical year! I would advise you to try to network as much as possible on rotations, especially your IR rotation. You never know who somebody knows, and that person may know of any opening. I believe PA Mathes felt that IR is so much more than procedures and that you really need to have a strong foundation in medicine before stepping into an IR role. However, you sound like you likely have a pretty good foundation already, so you may be able to find an IR position as a new grad. I would talk with your IR preceptor and other clinicians in the IR department. Explain your background and ask their opinion. I'm sure thoughts vary on this subject. Whatever happens, I wish you all the best in your PA career! Thanks for watching and thanks for commenting.
@@TheMedicineCouch thanks you so much for the advice. That is exactly what I intend to do. I will be doing rotations in and near my home town where I plan to work. So hopefully all of my rotations will be a networking opportunity to get to know so many people in various specialties that I can stay connected with no matter what direction I go. I’ve shared your channel with my entire cohort and so hopefully you see an up-tic in your viewer count. ☺️
@TheMedicineCouch Hi Michele! Just FYI, I have viewed most all of your videos and have been researching all the options for PANRE-LA review. I am due to start in Jan. 2025. After lots of comparing and review reading, I purchased the SmartyPance yesterday using your discount code and have not looked back. It is by far the best review course I have seen in my 24+ years as a PA. I have nothing but positive things to say about all that I have reviewed in the last 2 days. I still work full time as most of us do, so this looks like the very best option for all of us trying to adjust and adapt to the new LA format. Thanks again for your videos. Super helpful and supportive. I appreciate your honest, calming approach to it all. Best regards, ElizabethC.
I am so happy that you found SmartyPANCE to be helpful! I think he has done a great job of building a resource for us. I also greatly appreciate your kind words about my videos. You made my day!
Washington, DC -based PA here and hospitalist for here. I really want to talk to you! Your video cracked me up!😂 This was ME in ER! 😭💔 Sometimes that lateral mobility paradigm doesn't work out.😢
WHAT THE!?.....How the HECK did I miss THIS video. I'm a hospitalist PA in my mid 50s. I came from a community clinic background. I REALLY enjoyed that work and, felt like I was making a positive difference in people's lives. I totally agree with you about the differences between outpatient -vs-in patient. I was terrified when I initially started in 2015!😨 It was HUGE learning curve but, thank GOD, I had a good support team and adjusted. I also read EXTENSIVELY😮💨📚📚📚. I good book, "Hospitalist and Critical Care Medicine Made Easy", helped quite a bit. Did you do procedures (line placement, running codes, etc.)? I'm glad you mentioned the caveat about lateral mobility. It doesn't always work, especially for us PAs who have been in one particular specialty, for many years. This is 25 year, as a PA. I would like to talk to you MORE about your experience.
I don't know HOW you missed this video! 😀 No, I wasn't doing any procedures or on the code team. It was just doing admits, still there was so much that was different from outpatient! I agree that reading and studying extensively is definitely required when making this much of a switch. Unfortunately, I didn't have the time to devote to this. That is part of why I realized I needed to step away. I'd be happy to chat with you. You can drop me a message on LI or email me at admin@themedicinecouch.com and we can set something up!
You asked, I'm answeing. There needs to be a set of standard or expectations. If some man or woman doesn't take themselves seriously enough not to be a cartoon character, why am I trusting them with my health or life. Their look is the standard for Walmart, not for health care professionals.
Yes, I did ask and I appreciate you giving your honest feelings. So many people have vastly different feelings on this. That's why I find this topic so interesting! Thanks for watching and commenting.
I would rather have a more conventional professional appearance. I really can't take these people seriously. I feel like they were just given their degree. I'm 55.
I’m 55 as well and I completely understand. We grew up in a different time when these type of appearances were unacceptable. I mentally struggle with finding the looks (especially the tattoos) professional. However, I do understand that there are many patients who would be more comfortable seeing a provider with unconventional looks, and that is important. Of course, we all feel how we feel about things like this, and that’s fine, but I can assure you no one just “gave them“ their degrees. PA school is very difficult and highly regimented. I guarantee they worked hard for their degrees and are very knowledgeable providers. Thanks for watching and thanks for sharing your thoughts!
Look up docjohnBlaze (Dr brosious) in Vegas. Him and his nurse wife are tatted more than well most human beings. He is an incredible human and great plastic surgeon.
I work with a lot of other medical professionals with tattoos that are visible but tasteful, and a few with unnatural haircolors/unconventional haircuts. This is in New England though, it's not odd to see people of all walks of life like that.
What do you think? Is it time for unconventional looks to become more normal in medicine, or do you think the conventional "professional" appearance should be maintained?
Why do you PAs always have to rationalise and console yourselves (for the consolation prize)? Simply take pride in what you are capable of doing and stop with the nonsense comparisons.End of discussion.
@@drnpillay3020 Again, did you watch the video? It wasn't comparing PA to MD to say who is better or to try to rationalize anything. It is simply a video for people who are trying to decide between becoming a PA or MD. There are pros and cons to both routes and I was highlighting things to think about. And, contrary to what you might think, a good percentage of PAs could get into medical school if that was what they wanted to do, as I point out in the video.
I was given the Renpho eye mask for Christmas last year, one of the best gifts I have ever received. The giver did not even know I had dry eyes. It is so relaxing to use, love using it before I go to bed and my eyes feel so much better. I LOVE this eye massager.
