What drives someone to leave a successful career as a Physician Assistant and return to medical school? For Dr. Joanne Amos, it was discovering her true calling in one of medicine's most demanding specialties: the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit.

Dr. Amos takes us behind the scenes of her level three NICU, where she cares for babies as young as 22 weeks gestation. Her vivid descriptions bring to life both the technical challenges (placing catheters "the width of a spaghetti noodle" in babies who sometimes weigh less than a pound) and the profound emotional landscape of working with families experiencing their worst nightmares. The balance she strikes between adrenaline-fueled medicine and deep compassion offers a masterclass in what makes a truly exceptional physician.

Her unconventional path from PA school to medical school truly took off after she discovered her passion for neonatal intensive care. This journey gives Dr. Amos unique perspective on the differences between PA and physician education, addressing common misconceptions and offering invaluable guidance for students navigating their own healthcare career decisions.

Beyond clinical expertise, Dr. Amos discusses the realities of NICU schedules, the challenges facing PAs seeking leadership positions, and how her perspective as both a physician and parent influences her practice. Her story reminds us that finding your place in medicine sometimes means taking the road less traveled and that the courage to change course can lead to our most meaningful work.

Follow Dr. Amos on TikTok, Instagram, or YouTube to learn more about her journey and gain insights into the world of neonatal medicine. Her story will inspire anyone considering a career in healthcare to pursue the path that allows them to make their greatest contribution, regardless of conventional wisdom.

Instagram: @pa.c_to_doctor 

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