Originally Posted by
LWkitty
Interesting, as I feel quite the opposite. For a relatively simple medical issue (e.g. diagnosing a sinus infection, or lancing a skin abcess), if my choice is get in right away to see a highly qualified PA or LPN versus waiting a week to see an MD, give me the PA or the LPN today please.
Similarly, as long as the person piloting my plane has all the appropriate flight training, experience, and credentials, I couldn't care less whether that person has a 4 year university degree. Especially if that means my booked flight actually goes out as scheduled, rather than getting canceled for lack of Cree, leaving me stranded somewhere for days on end.
Segmentation of healthcare is an ongoing process while will lead to yet unknow consequences, but I challenge the notion of "simple" medical issues as a generalization. If you want a rubber stamped z-pak for your "sinus" infection, then the fastest route will seems the most expedient. As a practicing ear nose and throat physician, I can tell you that that NP or PA is almost certainly not diagnosing anything other that a URI and is almost certainly overprescribing antibiotics which has its own downstream effects.
There is something to be said for higher levels of education. Whether or not it is important for pilots, I am not sure. While a 2 or 4 year degree in botany may have no bearing on rote piloting skills, it may have some indication on a person's ability to problem solve, overcome adversity, plan and manage scare time and resources efficiently. These may be important in any job, including being a pilot. For me I'll file this into preferred for the time being.