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What is a Physician Assistant? 

PAs are medical professionals that have the ability of work in a variety of healthcare settings. PAs work directly with patients, and can diagnose illness, prescribe medication, and craft treatment plans. Depending on the state, PAs may work alongside a doctor or work independently.  A Physician Assistant has a master's degree obtained at one of the 250 accredited graduate programs in the US. These programs last about 2-3 years, and are usually composed of one didactic year (classroom based) and one clinical year (which allows students to rotate between different specialties).  After graduating, PAs have the freedom to move between different specialities of interest. PAs are in extremely high demand. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the demand for PA positions is estimated to be 31% between 2019-2029. The average salary of a PA in 2020 was around $115,000 per year.

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As of summer 2021, the AAPA (American Academy of PAs), ruled for an official name change for the profession. During the next few years, there will be a gradual implementation of the "Physician Associate" title.

Young Doctor

Why PA School? 

  • Ability to work directly with patients

  • Less time in school (in comparison to a medical program and residency)

  • Collaborative working environment 

  • Ability to move between specialties 

  • Competitive salary

  • Work/life balance

  • Job outlook

  • Ability to make an impact in the community

Related Careers: 

  • MD or OD

  • Nurse Practitioner

  • Physical Therapist

  • Occupational Therapist

PAs work in a variety of Healthcare settings:

  • Family medicine /General medicine

  • Surgery

  • Emergency medicine

  • Dermatology

  • Obstetrics/gynecology

  • Pediatrics

  • Psychiatry 

  • Orthopedics

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University of Delaware, Newark, DE

  • @udpaclub
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