What's the difference between a nurse practitioner and a physician's assistant?

Question

they both prescribe under a doctor's oversight, but what is the difference?

Answer 1

Actually, it totally depends on the state.  In many states, NPs can practice independently in certain situations.  Physician Assistants (no 's) always work with a doctor, although that doctor does not necessarily have to be on sight, just sign off on things within a certain time frame.

The biggest difference between NPs and PAs is specialization.  NPs must specialize in a field.  Common choices are family practice, pediatrics, midwifery.  

PAs do not specialize.  They can do everything from brain surgery to pediatrics to dermatology.  And they can change fields without going back for further schooling- this is different from doctors and NPs.  

Schooling is also different.   Check out the websites for more information.  Best of luck!