So, I am currently a registered dental hygienist in Missouri. I have a full time job in a successful practice, but I'm not feeling fullfilled. I've been in dentistry for 11 years, 5 of those years being a hygienist. I have an associates in applied science, and I realize I will need to get my bachelors if I decide that the path of a PA is for me.
-So first, anyone know any dental people that have made the switch? And, would my experience in the dental field count as experience in the medical profession. I do read radiographs, administer local anesthetic and nitrous oxide (along w many other things)
-what is the most common bachelors degree that is sought out by PAs?
-what is the job market like?
-how has the new health care act affected the field so far? And, are there any predictions on how it will affect PAs moving forward?
-I'm most interested in dermatology. But, not settled on this... How do you "specialize"?
-what does the typical day in the life of a PA look like?
-what setting is most common... Hospital? Clinic? Private practice?
-how many hours a week do most work?
-how intense is the schooling? (I'm prepared for it to be difficult and chalLenging)
-job satisfaction?
Sooooo many questions I know. I appreciate any all feedback.
Strongly considering a change in careers.
Re: Strongly considering a change in careers.
That's so many questions - maybe someone else can get to some of them. our main site (mypatraining.com) has articles that will answer many of them.
I do know people who have gone from dentistry to PA. But it's hard - most PA schools give little or no credit for experience with patients that you did in dentistry. They just consider it too different. You are sure to get some credit, particularly after doing it for years, but if you wish to become a PA, you really should get some other health care experience with patients. This can feel like starting over, but that's sort of what it takes. I'm sure your dental experience will help you, but the help will be for your own personal benefit, more than it will be beneficial to your application.
I hope that helps!
I do know people who have gone from dentistry to PA. But it's hard - most PA schools give little or no credit for experience with patients that you did in dentistry. They just consider it too different. You are sure to get some credit, particularly after doing it for years, but if you wish to become a PA, you really should get some other health care experience with patients. This can feel like starting over, but that's sort of what it takes. I'm sure your dental experience will help you, but the help will be for your own personal benefit, more than it will be beneficial to your application.
I hope that helps!