Just to clarify some info as I am a practicing NP - depending on the state you practice in you can be your own boss and have your own practice as an NP. Even in the state where I practice now which still requires a collaborating physician, I am practicing independently about 95% of the time. My doc is onsite maybe 2-4 times per month, but is always available by phone or text. I actually enjoy my collaboration because if I need assistance they are just a quick call away. Otherwise, they trust me as a provider to treat what I can handle and refer out what I can’t.
NP’s can work in a variety of specialties, as well. Acute care NP’s can work in ER’s, critical care units, and as hospitalists. Neonatal NP’s work in NICUs. There are peds NPs, geriatric NPs, and FNP’s who work in various specialties such as dermatolgy, occupational health, retail health clinics, urgent cares, cardiology, orthopedics, etc. Women’s health NP’s see GYN patients. I could go on and on.
I agree with shadowing both professions to get a feel for how each approach their patients and practice. I strongly believe that in the next several years NP’s will be filling the shoes of the family practice docs while those in med school decide to continue on and specialize.
Good luck with your decision!