Physician assistants, also known as PAs, practice medicine on a team under the supervision of physicians and surgeons. They are formally educated to examine patients, diagnose injuries and illnesses, and provide treatment.
Work Environment
Physician assistants work in physicians’ offices, hospitals, and other healthcare settings. Most work full time.
How to Become a Physician Assistant
Physician assistants must complete an accredited educational program. These programs usually lead to a master’s degree. All states require physician assistants to be licensed.
Pay
The median annual wage for physician assistants was $90,930 in May 2012.
Job Outlook
Employment of physician assistants is projected to grow 38 percent from 2012 to 2022, much faster than the average for all occupations. Increased demand for healthcare services from the growing and aging population and widespread chronic disease, combined with a shortage of physicians, will result in increased demand for healthcare providers, such as physician assistants.
