Physician Assistant Job Description

A physician assistant is a healthcare provider who works under the supervision of a physician or surgeon to manage patient care. Physician assistants perform a variety of tasks including taking medical histories, diagnosing and treating illnesses, ordering and interpreting diagnostic tests, and providing patient education.

• Taking patient histories and performing physical examinations
• Diagnosing and treating common medical conditions
• Ordering and interpreting laboratory tests and imaging studies
• Prescribing medications and treatments
• Assisting in surgery and other medical procedures
• Educating patients and families about health and wellness
• Coordinating care with other healthcare providers
• Documenting patient care in medical records
• Participating in quality improvement initiatives
• Maintaining professional licensure and continuing education requirements

• Empathy: Physician assistants should have strong empathy and compassion for their patients and be able to relate to them on a personal level.
• Communication Skills: Physician assistants need to be able to effectively communicate with their patients, colleagues, and other healthcare professionals.
• Attention to Detail: Physician assistants must be detail-oriented and able to accurately document patient information and follow up on any changes in a patient’s condition.
• Organization: Physician assistants must be able to manage their time effectively and stay organized in order to provide the best care for their patients.
• Adaptability: Physician assistants must be able to quickly adjust to changes in their environment and be able to think on their feet.
• Critical Thinking: Physician assistants must be able to assess a patient’s condition and make decisions based on their knowledge and experience.
• Professionalism: Physician assistants must maintain a high level of professionalism at all times and adhere to the ethical and legal standards of the profession.

A physician assistant (PA) typically works with a physician to provide medical care to patients. On a day-to-day basis, a PA will take patient histories, examine patients, order and interpret laboratory tests and x-rays, diagnose and treat illnesses, provide patient education and counseling, and prescribe medications when needed. A PA also assists the physician in both minor surgeries and in minor procedures such as suturing lacerations. PAs often serve as the first point of contact with patients in a medical practice and may also provide health care education and counseling to patients and their families.

Physician assistants (PAs) are health professionals who provide a variety of medical services and support under the supervision of a physician, including diagnosing and treating illnesses, ordering tests, and prescribing medications. Although having direct experience in the healthcare field is beneficial when pursuing a career as a PA, there are many other roles and industries that are compatible with becoming a physician assistant. Common job titles which are well aligned with the profession of a physician assistant include emergency medical technician, medical scribe, medical laboratory technician, nurse practitioner, certified nurse assistant, medical assistant, and other roles which require medical knowledge and training. Depending on one's skills and experience, they may also consider roles such as health coach, wellness specialist, patient advocate, and health educator, all of which can provide a solid foundation for a career as a physician assistant.