Prefer MD/DO preceptors
Is it bad that as a PA student, I would 1000% rather have MD/DO preceptors than an NP preceptor? I do not mean any harm when I say this, but I am genuinely pushed and my knowledge and limits are tested when I’m with an MD or DO. I can’t truly speak from having a PA preceptor though because PAs are not in high quantities everywhere. However, I feel like when I am with a physician my time on the rotation is more structured and has higher quality expectations & very limited “shadowing”. I can also ask questions & typically get “why” or “how” something works! For example, if a patients disease or symptoms aren’t managed with the current tx, but they have other associated conditions or possible CIs to other common options, explain WHY/HOW to choose the next therapy/management approach. I generally get lots of patient assessments on my own and then coming to my preceptor and giving a presentation & receive constructive feedback — which is what we were taught to do. Additionally, I understand I will be a PA, not a physician, but I feel like I get to see how to best help and assist the physicians when I’m learning from them. It also pushes me to fill my gaps and the knowledge as best I can.
Again, this is just a general experience I have had. Not making a blanket statement or downplaying any profession.