Physician Assistant -             First Assistant

Physician assistants practice medicine under the supervision of physicians and surgeons.  A PA is formally trained to provide diagnostic, therapeutic, and preventive health care services, as delegated by a physician.  they  take medical histories, examine and treat patients, order and interpret laboratory tests and x-rays, and make diagnoses.  They also treat minor injuries, by suturing, splinting, and casting. A PA can record progress notes, instruct and counsel patients, and order or carry out therapy. In 48 states physician assistants may prescribe medications.  

The duties of the physician assistant is determined by the the supervising physician and state law.  You should investigate the current laws and regulations in the state in which you wish to practice.  Liability insurance, registration fees with the drug enforcement administration, state licensing fees, and credentialing fees are some of the expenses for the physician assistant which many employers pay.

Education:  Required to complete an accredited, formal education program and pass a national exam to obtain a license.  Most PA programs are two years and are full time.   Most offer the option of a master's degree, others offer bachelor or associate degree. The program is accredited by the American Academy of Physician Assistants.  Admission requirements vary by program.

National Examination: The Physician Assistant National Certifying Examination is administered by the National Commission on Certification of Physician Assistants (NCCPA).

Employment:  According to the U.S. Department of  Labor, it is one of the fastest growing occupations. Earnings range  between $57,110 and $83,560 with a median salary of $69,410.

For More Information go to http://www.aapa.org  American Academy of Physician Assistants and http://www.nccpa.net  National Commission on Certification of Physician Assistants.