Did you have a major career change?

[BAJAvol]

Random Update! So I have done extensive research on the PT field, talk to several, and came to a conclusion. I will not be going to PT school. The accreditation board forcing this career into a doctorate program hurt this field a lot worse than people realize. It's drove tuition in excess of $100,000 all while the salaries have remained steady at around $70,000 for this area. It's not financially smart. Over the last couple of weeks, I had the ability to shadow a physician assistant (PA). I love the idea of going this route. I love helping people and I love medical science. It's a 27 month rigourous program and student loan debt would be right at $100,000. But....the salaries are much better. Typically ranging from $90,000 - $115,000 for the area. I know its not all about the money but I am not putting myself in a financial hole that I cant get out of. Several people have asked me why not just go to Med school. Its the same curriculum just spread out over 4 years instead of 27 months. The huge plus of being a PA is not having to do a residency and also having the flexibility to move specialties. The trade off of course is salary and always having to work under a supervising physician. Both of which I do not mind. My biggest hurdle is going to be gaining healthcare experience. Just my opinion, but I think it's complete BS to require someone to have 1500 hours of direct patient care in order to be considered a competitive applicant. I have a cumulative GPA of 3.89 and a science GPA of 3.71. My GRE score is highly competitive as well. But I need to gain healthcare experience to be accepted in a program? (my rant for the day)! Anyways, is anyone here a PA? Any Dr's want to give any input to how PA's are treated at your facility. Any help would be appreciated!