By Mitch Rice
Becoming a physician’s assistant is a lucrative career that allows qualified people to use their knowledge and skills to support patients and their health. Those interested in becoming a PA need to know how to get started and what they can expect from the program. Learning as much as possible about becoming a physician’s assistant will help individuals make the right decisions for their future.
What Does a Physician’s Assistant Do?
Physician’s assistants are healthcare providers who work in many settings, including doctor’s offices, hospitals, private medical practices, and colleges. Physician’s assistants work under the guidance of a medical doctor but also collaborate with other medical professionals. Duties may include documenting patients’ health histories, diagnosing conditions, developing a care plan, and prescribing medications and treatments for patients. Many people seeking this career want to know the worst states to be a PA.
Five Steps to Becoming a Licensed Physician’s Assistant
Getting accepted into a physician’s assistant program requires hard work and dedication. Although the process is not easy, qualified individuals can go through the straightforward steps below and see success. Finding the right program is essential for becoming a licensed physician’s assistant.
- Individuals must obtain a bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university. Majoring in science, chemistry, or biology benefits those seeking a PA career.
- Applicants must then fulfill all the prerequisites for their physician’s assistant school. They may be required to take additional chemistry, psychology, or biological sciences courses. Specific requirements vary by the educational program and may not necessarily apply to the student’s pursuit of their major.
- Individuals must obtain real-world experience of at least 1,000 hours to become a physician’s assistant. Work experience may include volunteering or paid positions related to the field.
- Applicants will need to apply and attend an accredited physician’s assistant program. One must typically undergo an interview before being accepted into the program.
- Individuals must obtain and maintain their state license and certification to provide PA They must pass the PANCE exam. National certification requires additional hours of continuing medical education.
Advantages of Becoming a Physician’s Assistant
Physician’s assistant programs offer many benefits to qualified students. Those considering applying should research the career choice and learn as much as possible about the advantages below.
- Physician assistants are one of the most versatile career choices because these professionals can work in any state and many professional settings.
- Physician assistants can work regular business hours and do not have to be on call 24/7, so they can enjoy life outside of work.
- The median salary for PAs is $105,000 per year.
- Becoming a physician’s assistant allows people to give back to their communities by serving their health needs.
- PAs give team-based healthcare to patients so they never have to feel alone and always receive support.
Discover More Information Today
Becoming a physician’s assistant is an honorable career choice. Giving back to the community by helping people protect and improve their health makes the hard work of becoming a physician’s assistant worth the effort.
Now is an ideal time for people to learn about their career options in the medical field. The field of physician assistants is growing rapidly, with the need for more medical professionals increasing yearly. Research the options, and select the best PA program to begin your studies. The work will be challenging, but it will be worth the effort.
Data and information are provided for informational purposes only, and are not intended for investment or other purposes.
