The Profession
Who They Are
PAs (physician associates/physician assistants) are licensed clinicians who practice medicine in every specialty and setting. PAs are dedicated to expanding access to care and transforming health and wellness through patient-centered, team-based medical practice.
Source: American Academy of Physician Associates (APAA)
What They Do
PAs often serve as primary healthcare providers in collaboration with physicians, diagnosing illnesses, developing treatment plans, prescribing medications, and providing patient education and counseling. PAs can work in various healthcare settings such as hospitals, clinics, and private practices, and they care for patients across a wide range of medical specialties.
Source: US Department of Labor
Where They Work
Physician assistants work under the delegation of a physician, primarily in healthcare facilities including hospitals, clinics, community health centers, and outpatient care services. PAs care for patients in a variety of specialties, from primary care to emergency medicine and everything in between. Some also work in educational services, employment services, and correctional institutions.
Source: American Academy of Physician Associates (AAPA)
Outlook
Employment of PAs is projected to grow 27% from 2022 to 2032, much faster than the average for all occupations. About 12,200 openings for PAs are projected each year, on average, over the decade. Many of those openings are expected to result from the need to replace workers who transfer to different occupations or exit the labor force, such as to retire.
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics