becoming a PA

[radientinrad]

---

Members don't see this ad.

Hello! I'm having a super hard time deciding on what direction I would like to go in medicine. I have fallen in love with radiology and oncology. However my biggest decision is if becoming a PA is a good decision. I love that pa's have the ability to work with a dr and assist in diagnostics and procedures. I love the idea of being able to speak with a patient answer their questions and help education them on their medical concerns. However the more research I am doing the more I'm debating a different profession. The cost and salary of a pa frighten me. Yes their are pa programs that cost 30k in my area, but most are 70k and up. this does not include Undergrad. So you figure by the time schooling and living expenses are accounted for were looking at deby upwards of 100k. In my opinion that's alot. On the other hand I'm debating becoming a radiology technician. The program costs are under 10k with a starting salary of 50k, by the time salary and loan paybacks are accounted for becowing a radiology tech makes much more sence. I'm just stuck and any advice is well appreciated.

 

[Apollo1]

Rad Tech - http://www.bls.gov/ooh/healthcare/radiologic-technologists.htm

PA - http://www.bls.gov/ooh/healthcare/physician-assistants.htm

(Note: I only used Fed gov't data b/c some other sites had AAPA data, but I wasn't familiar with the site & whether they're recognized or not)

Rad. tech. is a quick way to make decent money (if you're single and young, IMO), but they have a very low ceiling for maximum income and the job they do is extremely repetitive. PA's, on average, will make more than enough to repay the cost associated with the schooling. Plus, there's still the possibility of working in different specialty areas if one chooses.

It's depends on what you want for your life. If you want the quick and easy, go Rad. tech. If you can tough it out for a few years and want to be more involved with patients, etc., go PA.