As a Physician Assistant (PA), I often encounter the same questions: “What is a PA?” and “What is the difference between a PA and a physician?” The profession is not new it has been around since the early 1960s. However, educating the general public about it has always been a challenge. I believe today the awareness of PAs is much more readily known than in the past, since more physicians and healthcare institutions are using the services of physician assistants. This definitely has made an impact with the understanding of their roles. However, I’m not sure that the community is truly educated to what a PA can or cannot do.
A simple definition of a Physician Assistant would be that they are health care professionals which are licensed to practice medicine under the supervision of a licensed physician. Explained slightly better would be that that PA’s can conduct physical exams, diagnose and treat diseases, can order and interpret tests such as but not limited to labwork, EKG’s (electrocardiograms) and/or refer individuals for further testing or specialty physicians which may aid in further treatments. A PA can also counsel on wellness and preventative care, assist in surgical procedures with proper training and as well write out prescriptions. So, in general they can provide a broad range of diagnostic and therapeutic services.
Physician Assistant’s are trained in an intensive accredited educational program which is modeled and complements a medical school format for approximately two years. A National certification exam is taken upon completion of school. They must log in 100 hours of CME (continuing medical education) every 2 years and re-certification is done every six years. PA’s do not do a residency or internship, however there are certain specialties that may offer it such as surgery.
Physician Assistants practice in all areas of medicine which may include primary care (family or internal medicine), pediatrics, obstetrics, orthopedics, occupational health, emergency rooms and a vast variety of areas.
Often the question that arises is “What can’t a PA do?” Simply answered is that this varies depending on the individual’s specific training, experience and different state laws. PA’s must work within “their scope of training.” This usually implies that there are certain limits and for the most part a PA is taught these limits in school, training and along with their supervising physician. Generally, every PA out there knows when and where to refer to a supervising physician – ultimately the physician has the complete responsibility for the care of the patients and the PA shares in that responsibility.
Being a PA has given me such a great opportunity in working with different physicians in a variety of specialties. The knowledge that I have gained has helped me tremendously in all aspects of life, the greatest thing that I have accomplished is the ability to listen and to try and make a difference with everyone that I come into contact with.
If you have the opportunity to have a PA as your provider or just know one, I am sure they will answer any questions you may have for them. After all, the goal is to help and educate our patients.
