Essay On Physician Assistant

Physician Assistants The demand for physician assistants is on the rise every year. More than 100,000 certified physician assistants are in the United States today (“PAs Practice Medicine” 2). A physician assistant (PA) is a nationally certified and state-licensed medical professional. The entry level education is a master’s degree. In 2012, the median pay for a physician assistant was $90,930 per year and $43.72 per hour (“Physician Assistants” 1). The job outlook for physician assistants is thirty-eight percent, which is much faster than average. To become a physician assistant, there are a number of steps to take. Prospective physician assistants must obtain a baccalaureate in a science-related degree. Before applying to PA school, students will have to complete college coursework in sciences such as chemistry, physiology, anatomy, microbiology, and biology. Many programs also require healthcare experience before entering. Students can get healthcare experience by being a (not an exhaustive list): medical assistant, certified nursing assistant, lab assistant, surgical tech, emergency medical technician, and etcetera (‘Become a PA” 2). After receiving a bachelor’s degree and healthcare experience, a student can apply to PA school. Upon completion of a PA program, a master’s

A physician assistant’s duties depend on the setting in which they work, specialization, and experience. For example, a physician assistant who works in the operating room will have duties assisting a surgeon during surgery. Physician assistants work in all areas of medicine. PAs can do majority of the duties physicians have as long as their state permits. The difference between a physician assistant and a physician is a physician assistant does not attend medical school. PAs usually do what their supervising physician or surgeon allows them. It is important for a PA to have a good relationship with his or her doctor because they work