What is a Physician Assistant?

Physician Assistants (PAs) are healthcare professionals trained in the medical model who practice medicine under the supervision of licensed physicians within a patient-centered healthcare team. Under physician supervision, PAs take medical histories and perform physical exams, order and interpret laboratory and diagnostic tests, perform selected diagnostic and therapeutic procedures, prescribe medications, and provide patient education and counseling.  Although educated as generalists, PAs are considered “polyvalent” clinicians who receive additional education, training, and experience on the job and may work in primary care or subspecialty areas in a wide variety of practice settings.