RN to MD Transition: The Road Less Traveled

Neil Baum, MD

Cory Hughes

Jan 9, 2026

Physician Leadership Journal

Volume 13, Issue 1, Pages 56-59

https://doi.org/10.55834/plj.3726278453

Abstract

Most medical students choose a traditional path to becoming a physician. But, other routes offer advantages to the medical profession. This article explores a non-traditional route that includes a background in nursing as the launch pad to a medical career. The authors examine the nurse–physician relationship and explore why there is more in common between the two professions than what divides them.

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