What is the difference between a physicians assistant and a nurse practitioner?

what is the difference between a physicians assistant and a nurse practitioner?

Thank you.
(:

Basically, PA's make more money. I guarantee that almost everytime you visit the doctor, you see a PA instead of a real doctor. Nurse Practioners basically perform physicals and stuff while the PA's act as the actual doctor ans prescribe medication.

they know almost just as much as your doctor. but when i go to the doctor i always ask to only see me doctor.

nurse practitioners go through vigorous tests and are certified by the medical board. They are higher level than a physician's assistant.

Nurse practitioners at times are allowed to diagnose patients while a physician's assistnat cannot.

PA's can sign prescriptions, nurse practitioner's can write them, but have to get them signed by the physician on site.

Both have to have their work reviewed and approved by a fully licensed physician.

As a PA-C I can tell you that the answer to this question can vary by state. Each state has it's own particular laws regulating what a PA or a NP can do. PA usually has a master's in medicine, a NP has a master's in nursing. A NP has to work in colaboration with a physician. A PA works with the supervision of a doctor (although that can mean that a doctor is available by phone for answering questions if necessary). Basically, we both can be very independent.There is alot of opinions about the question you asked.....since these positions are usually in competition with each other. I personally was a nurse for over 25 years and then chose to go on to be a PA instead of a NP. I personally wanted a more 'medical model' of instruction instead of a 'nursing model'. But in practice....I find I work with NP and PA the same. I see no difference and have found no differences in opinion among doctors in general.