Physician assistants are valuable members of health care teams and typically work in hospitals, clinics, and nursing care facilities. They work closely with physicians and other medical staff members in order to diagnostic, treat and prevent various illnesses and conditions. Their duties include taking medical histories, examining and treating patients, ordering and interpreting laboratory tests and x rays, and making diagnoses. According to the Occupational Handbook, Physician Assistants held over 62,000 jobs in 2004 and their employment opportunities seem to be growing at a phenomenal rate. In addition, Physician Assistants earned a median annual salary of $69,410 in May 2004 whereas those on the higher end earned $94,880 while those on the lower end earned $37,320.00.

PA Benefits and Required Skills

Physician assistants perform a host of duties and are always supervised by physicians. Some typical duties include:

• Treating minor injuries
• Evaluating symptoms and interpreting test results
• Making treatment suggestions
• Administering preventive care suggestions
• Carrying out various therapies
• Prescribing medications (in most states) or other treatment modalities.

Physician Assistants usually possess these skills:

• Ability to work independently and as a cooperative team member.
• Self confidence and true desire to work in the health care industry.
• Ability to handle diverse personalities and temperaments.
• Strong leadership and organizational skills
• Ability to work in fast paced and sometimes stressful environment

Challenges You Might Experience

Although you gain significant clinical experience and get to work with various medical professionals and clients, the hours are quite demanding and so is the pace of the work. If you have a problem being carefully supervised then this may not be the position for you as Physician Assistants are always supervised.

Educational Background Needed

Physician Assistants are required to complete at least 2 years of college and have taken such courses as English, Mathematics, Social Science, etc. They are also expected to have some experience working in the health care industry. In addition, they are required to complete a two year formal PA training program from an approved institution. Currently there are more than 135 American Academy of Physician Assistant approved program. Once they complete this training, they are required to pass a state licensing examination. This exam is called the Physician Assistant National Certifying Examination and is administered by the National Commission on Certification of Physician Assistants.

In addition, Physician Assistants must complete 100 hours of continuing medical education every 2 years and must pass a recertification exam every 6 years.

The information found on this website is not designed to replace the patient/physician relationship.