A Physician Assistant is an experienced healthcare professional who may work under the supervision of a licensed physician to conduct a variety of tasks to provide patient care. A Physician Assistant is allowed to perform many of the tasks provided by physicians, including performing examinations, diagnosing and treating illness, and in some states, writing prescriptions.

Physician Assistant Training Requirements

A Physician Assistant must attend training programs accredited by the Accreditation Review Commission on Education for the Physician Assistant (ARC-PA). Programs emphasize course work in anatomy and physiology, pharmacology, microbiology, internal medicine, emergency medicine, surgery, and psychology. Upon completion of coursework section of training programs, students begin clinical rotations, working in hospitals and other facilities gaining hands on experience. Physician Assistants are not required to complete hospital residencies, though some do to receive additional education in various specialties.

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Physician Assistant Training Schools, License and Certification Programs

Physician Assistants have prior experience in the medical field before beginning an accredited physicians� assistant training program. Physician Assistants who complete training programs are referred to as PA�s. Training programs are available at the bachelors and masters level, and PA�s can further specialize in other medical fields.

Physician Assistant Prerequisites

All Physician Assistants are required to hold licensure and certification. Upon completion of an accredited PA training program, students must take and pass the Physician Assistant National Certifying Examination (PANCE), and the National Certification Board Exam (NCCPA) in order to become licensed.

Physician Assistant Continuing Education

In order to maintain licensure and certification, Physician Assistants must take at least 100 hours of continued education courses every two years. They must also take a re-certification exam every six years. Search HealthCare-TrainingCenter.com to find continued education courses for Physician Assistant.