PHYSICIAN ASSISTANTS

Nature of the Work

As their title suggests, physician assistants (PA's) support physicians.  However, they should not be confused with medical assistants.  PA's are formally trained to perform many of the routine but time-consuming tasks physicians usually do.  They take medical histories, examine patients, order and interpret laboratory tests and x rays, and make preliminary diagnoses.  They also treat minor injuries by suturing, splinting, and casting.  PA's record progress notes, instruct and counsel patients, and order or carry out therapy.  In 35 States and the District of Columbia, physician assistants may prescribe medications.  PA's may have managerial duties too.  Some order medical and laboratory supplies and equipment; others supervise technicians and assistants.  Physician assistants always work under the supervision of a physician.

Training, Other Qualifications, and Advancement

Almost all States require that new PA's complete an accredited, formal education program.  Admission requirements vary, but many programs require 2 years of college and some work experience in the health care field.  Students should take courses in biology, English, chemistry, math, psychology, and social sciences.  More than half of all applicants hold a bachelor's or master's degree.  Many applicants are former emergency medical technicians, other allied health professionals, or nurses.  PA programs generally last 2 years. 

Job Outlook

Employment opportunities are expected to be excellent for physician assistants, particularly in areas or settings that have difficulty attracting enough physicians, such as rural and inner city clinics.  Employment of PA's is expected to grow faster than the average for all occupations through the year 2005 due to anticipated expansion of the health services industry and an emphasis on cost containment.

Earnings

According to the American Academy of Physician Assistants, the average salary for all physician assistants in 1993 was between $50,000 and $55,000.  Salaries vary by specialty, practice setting, geographical location, and years of experience.

Sources of Additional Information

A free brochure, Physician Assistants, PArtners in Medicine, available from:

American Academy of Physician Assistants, 950 North Washington St., Alexandria, VA 22314.

For a list of accredited programs and a catalog of individual PA training programs, contact:

Association of Physician Assistant Programs, 950 North Washington St., Alexandria, VA 22314.

For eligibility requirements and a description of the Physician Assistant National Certifying Examination, write to:

National Commission on Certification of Physician Assistants, Inc.,
2845 Henderson Mill Rd.  NE., Atlanta, GA 30341.


