Physician Assistant

Salary

Average about 68,000-97,000 Surgical/Specialty jobs often pay more.

What are Physician Assistants?

A physician assistant (PA) is a medical professional who works as part of a team with a doctor. A PA is a graduate of an accredited PA educational program who is nationally certified and state-licensed to practice medicine with the supervision of a physician. The scope of what the PA can do is based on the comfort level of the supervising MD and the training they receive

How independent are they?

As independent at the MD wants Most see their own patients Sometimes share a schedule with MD May rotate between multiple MD's Take practice call Open or close on surgery independently Sign medical documents

Competitive Factors from Application

Diversity of Life Experience Military Service Leadership Research Community Service Medical Volunteer Work (underserved communities) PA Shadow Experience

PA Program Curriculum

Most programs last about 2 years First-year is considered 'Pre-Clinical' although clinical experiences are included. Second-year is considered the "Clinical Year" and includes clinical site rotations

How easy is it to get a job?

Opportunities are endless but you may need to be willing to work in a non-specific medical field, or in a rural area Residencies are available in Surgery, ER, Orthopedics, ENT, Neonatal, Hospital Medicine, and others

What do PA's do?

Perform physical examinations Diagnose and treat illnesses Order and interpret lab tests Perform procedures Assist in surgery Provide patient education and counseling Make rounds in hospitals and nursing homes