Finding the Best Physician Assistant Programs

For people who want to enter the now booming field of being a physician assistant, it would be key to look for the best physician assistant programs. This line of work has recently been regarded as one of the best jobs in America due to its relative stability and the experience that one gains in practicing the occupation on a day to day basis.

What is a Physician Assistant?

As the name would imply, a physician assistant is someone who helps a medical professional (either a physician or a surgeon) in delivering healthcare services to patients. Physician assistants may do tasks ranging from diagnostic, therapeutic or preventive procedures for the benefit of patients. This might include anything from interviewing patients for updating of medical histories, facilitating medical laboratory examinations through blood extraction, and even doing some medical tasks such as splinting and casting. In most states, a physician assistant can also prescribe some medications under the law.

Aside from his or her role in the healthcare delivery system in tandem with the doctor in the clinic, a physician assistant is also expected to be the one responsible for managerial and administrative duties in the clinic or hospital. He or she is expected to be able to run an inventory, and be aware of supplies that would have to get replenished soon.

How does one become a Physician Assistant?

Formal coursework for physician assistants usually last for two years. These programs are usually run by colleges, universities and hospitals with allied medical profession courses. Most of these institutions are also linked and affiliated with medical schools.

Training in this profession usually involves theoretical lectures in various health-related fields such as biochemistry, pathology, human anatomy, physiology, microbiology, pharmacology, medicine and other courses that most medical students take. Despite the similarity in the curriculum, the level of instruction is not quite as intensive compared to what a medical student usually gets in training.

Licensure

Physician assistants are all required to have a license to practice their profession in all states. A license can be obtained by passing the Physician Assistant National Certifying Examination administered by the National Commission of Certification of Physician Assistants. Prior to licensing, one must be a graduate of an accredited physician assistant program to be qualified to take this examination. To remain certified, physician assistants also need to have a documented clinical experience of 100 hours of continuing medical education (through seminars, training or hands on clinical exposure).

Regardless of the school and program, though, bear in mind that this profession requires commitment and drive, and that most doctors and medical institutions will look for certifications and experience, rather than simply academic aptitude.