What does a physician assistant do?

A physician assistant (PA) is a healthcare professional licensed to practice medicine under the supervision of a physician. PAs are trained in a variety of medical specialties, and they can perform many of the same tasks as a physician, such as:

- Taking medical histories

- Performing physical examinations

- Diagnosing illnesses

- Prescribing medications

- Providing counseling and education

- Performing minor surgical procedures

PAs are an essential part of the healthcare team, and they play a vital role in providing high-quality care to patients. They are often the first healthcare professional that a patient sees, and they can help to ensure that patients get the care they need.

PAs are required to have a bachelor's degree and complete a two-year PA program accredited by the Accreditation Review Commission on Education for the Physician Assistant (ARC-PA). PA programs include classroom instruction, clinical rotations, and supervised patient care experiences.

After completing a PA program, PAs must pass the Physician Assistant National Certifying Examination (PANCE) in order to practice. They are also required to complete continuing medical education (CME) credits to maintain their licensure.

PAs are employed in a variety of settings, including hospitals, clinics, private practices, and long-term care facilities. They are also an important part of the military medical system.

PAs are highly trained healthcare professionals who play an important role in providing high-quality care to patients. They are a valuable asset to the healthcare team, and they help to ensure that patients receive the care they need.