Personal Qualities
What is one specific personal quality that a Physician Assistant must possess to excel in their role?
Desire to serve patients, self motivated, good bedside manner, emotional stability, ability to make decisions, willing to study
Who is a Physician Assistant required to work under the direct supervision of?
A physician
What is the minimum duration of a postgraduate physician assistant program?
2 years
Where do the majority of Physician Assistants find employment according to recent trends?
In the offices of physicians.
Name three specific settings where Physician Assistants commonly work.
Hospitals, clinics, and physicians' offices
Name one key aspect of a PA's bedside manner that contributes to effective patient care.
Empathy
Give one example of a task that a PA can perform independently within their scope of practice.
Prescribing medications (in some states)
Name one core subject typically covered in PA education programs.
Biology, chemistry, pathology, Anatomy and Physiology, microbiology, clinical pharmacology, clinical medicine, geriatrics/home health care, disease prevention, medical ethics
What are two factors that can influence the salary of a Physician Assistant?
Specialty and geographic location.
What are two common work schedules for Physician Assistants in different healthcare settings?
Three 12-hour shifts weekly, 5-day/40-hour week, 24 hour shifts twice weekly
How does a PA's self-motivation benefit their patients and healthcare team?
It drives them to provide high-quality care.
In what types of healthcare settings might a PA have more autonomy in providing care?
Rural or inner-city clinics with limited physician availability.
How do PA students gain practical clinical experience during their education?
Through supervised clinical rotations.
What was the median annual earnings for Physician Assistants in 2020?
$115,390
What do the physical demands of working as a Physician Assistant include depending on the setting?
They include long periods of standing and considerable walking.
Why is the ability to make decisions in emergencies crucial for a Physician Assistant?
To ensure timely and appropriate patient care.
What specific steps must be completed to obtain licensure as a Physician Assistant?
Graduation from an accredited PA program and passing the PANCE exam.
What organization accredits PA education programs?
ARC-PA (Accreditation Review Commission on Education for the Physician Assistant)
How does the projected job growth for PAs compare to the average job growth rate?
It is much faster than average.
What specific challenges might a PA face in the work environment of an emergency room compared to a clinic?
Longer hours and handling critical situations.
How does a Physician Assistant's commitment to ongoing education enhance patient outcomes?
It keeps them updated with medical advancements.
Name one managerial responsibility that a Physician Assistant may be entrusted with in a healthcare setting.
Supervising technicians/other assistants, ordering supplies and equipment.
In 2021 how many education programs were accredited by the accreditation Review Commission on Education for the Physician Assistant, Inc
277
Name one benefit typically provided by employers to Physician Assistants in addition to their salary.
liability insurance, registration fees (with the DEA), state licensing fees, and credentialing fees
What shifts is an Emergency Room PA expected to work?
24 hours, 2 times a week