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Are you interested in a career as a physician assistant (PA)? PAs have plenty of clinical and non-clinical options within the field, spanning direct patient care, research, education, in-home health services and more. Plus, with additional certifications or experience, you can move between specialties or explore new settings throughout your career.

For nurse practitioner Ikran Hussein, working for Signify Health offers more than just the opportunity to make a difference for health plan members. Her part-time role allows her to juggle the responsibilities of a meaningful career while keeping up with her young children.  
 
"What I like most about Signify Health, after the time I get to spend with members, is the flexible schedule. I can put my child on the bus and be home in time for dinner and bed time,” she said.

Ikran discovered her interest in health care at a young age, inspired in part by her mother, also a nurse. Prior to joining Signify Health, Ikran worked in a variety of health care settings, including nursing homes, acute care and home care. However, longer shifts and late nights made it difficult to manage her schedule and be present for her family.

Recently, U.S. News and World Report named physician assistant (PA) the No. 3 best job overall and the No. 2 best health care job — and for good reason. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment for PAs is expected to grow 20% between 2024 and 2034, significantly outpacing the national average. 

For Benita Varnado, MD, FACOG, the path to medicine was paved early on, guided by her mother, a pediatric nurse, and father, a dentist. As a child, she spent time in his dental practice, welcoming patients and assisting with paperwork.