At the practice level, there are likely more similarities than differences between PAs and NPs. However, there are two key differences: PAs are educated in general medicine, which offers a comprehensive view of all aspects of medicine. NPs must choose a “population focus,” e.g., pediatric nurse practitioner or women's health nurse practitioner. PAs are trained to practice medicine using a curriculum modeled on medical school education. NPs are trained in the advanced practice of nursing.