Travel Nurse vs. Physician Assistant: What Are the Differences?

If you’re interested in working in the medical field and enjoy traveling, then you may want to consider becoming a travel nurse or physician assistant. Both of these positions offer the opportunity to help people while also experiencing different parts of the country (or world).

In this article, we compare and contrast travel nursing and physician assistant positions, including job duties, education requirements, and pay. We also provide information on how to become a travel nurse or physician assistant.

What is a Travel Nurse?

Travel Nurses are registered nurses who work in temporary positions at healthcare facilities in order to fill staffing gaps. They often work 13-week assignments in various locations across the country. Travel Nurses typically have one or more years of experience in a specific nursing specialty, and they use this experience to provide high-quality patient care. They work with other nurses and doctors to ensure that patients receive the best possible care. Travel Nurses keep detailed records of their patients’ medical histories and treatments. They also educate patients and their families on various health topics.

What is a Physician Assistant?

Physician Assistants are medical professionals who provide patient care under the supervision of licensed physicians. They examine patients, order and interpret diagnostic tests, diagnose illnesses and injuries, and provide treatment. Physician Assistants also educate patients on preventative care and health maintenance. They may work in a variety of medical settings, such as primary care offices, hospitals, clinics, and specialty care practices.

Travel Nurse vs. Physician Assistant

Here are the main differences between a travel nurse and a physician assistant.

Job Duties

Although travel nurse and physician assistant roles share some duties, they also have many differences. For example, a travel nurse may perform patient assessments, administer medications and provide basic medical care. However, a physician assistant may complete more complex procedures like taking detailed patient histories, conducting physical exams and providing specialized treatments. Additionally, travel nurses may work with patients for shorter periods of time, while physician assistants often work with patients for extended periods.

Job Requirements

Travel nurses typically need to have at least an Associate’s Degree in Nursing (ADN) or a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN). Some employers may prefer candidates with a master’s degree in nursing, but it is not always required. In addition to their educational requirements, travel nurses must also be licensed as registered nurses (RNs) in the state they plan to work. They may also need to obtain additional certifications, such as Basic Life Support (BLS) or Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS), depending on the employer’s preferences.

Physician assistants usually need to earn at least a bachelor’s degree from an accredited PA program before taking the Physician Assistant National Certifying Exam (PANCE) to become certified PAs. Some programs may require applicants to have prior experience working in the medical field, and all programs include clinical rotations to give students hands-on experience in various medical settings. After passing the PANCE, physician assistants must maintain their certification by completing continuing medical education (CME) credits every two years and paying annual fees.

Work Environment

Travel nurses and physician assistants may work in different environments depending on the location of their assignment. For example, a travel nurse might work in an emergency room or hospital setting one week and then work as a traveling medical technician for a pharmaceutical company the next week. A physician assistant might work in a private practice one week and then work at a free clinic the next week.

Travel nurses often have to adapt to new locations and settings quickly. They also need to be able to communicate effectively with patients and other healthcare professionals. Traveling can be stressful, but many travel nurses enjoy the variety that comes from working in different locations. Physician assistants typically work in more controlled environments where they know the people they’re working with well.

Skills

Both travel nurses and physician assistants need to have excellent communication skills. As they will be working with patients, they need to be able to explain procedures and answer any questions that patients may have. They also need to be able to document patient care properly.

Travel nurses need to be able to work independently as they will often be in new environments. They need to be able to orient themselves quickly and be comfortable working without a lot of supervision. Physician assistants, on the other hand, need to be able to work well as part of a team. They will be working closely with physicians and other medical staff and need to be able to take direction and collaborate effectively.

Both travel nurses and physician assistants need to have strong critical thinking skills. They need to be able to assess patients and make decisions about their care. They also need to be able to identify when there are problems and take appropriate action.

Salary

Travel nurses can earn an average salary of $82,939 per year, while physician assistants can earn an average salary of $106,398 per year. Both of these average salaries may vary depending on the size of the company at which you work, location of your job and the level of experience you have prior to pursuing either position.