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One of the most sought after job roles today is that of a Physician assistant. The demands for suitable and experienced candidates are high but the supply level is generally found wanting. As such, this is currently one of the most prospective fields to venture into and you might already be considering an education in this field. If so, then physician assistant schools are there to help you on your next step.
Physician Assistant Salary Information:
Physician assistants are generally one of the best paid professionals in the industry. This is largely due to the fact that qualified and experienced physicians are hard to come by and highly in demand. You can expect a salary of between $60,000 and $80,000 annually as a professional physician assistant. The upper 10% of physician assistants earn up to $100,000 a year.
Physician Assistant Education Requirements:
Physician assistant schools train you in every aspect necessary in order for you to become a qualified assistant. With the proper certifications, you will be able to legally practice medicine under the supervision of a full-fledged physician. Apart from practicing medicine, your pharmaceutical and medical education will teach you how to conduct physical exams, counsel patients, assist in surgeries, and write prescriptions among others.
When choosing a school, do ensure that it is accredited by the Accreditation Review Commission on Education for the Physician Assistant (ARC-PA) or another relevant authority. You will also be required to obtain an NCCPA certificate before you can perform the job role. The examinations for these certifications are not as tough as medical schools but still require thorough preparation. Upon completing your course and getting recognized as a professional physician assistant, you can now begin your career in this highly in-demand field.
Physician Assistant Work Environment:
Before you begin work in the industry as a physician assistant, there are a few things you should look out for. First of all, although physician assistants generally work in very comfortable sterile conditions you will also be required to work long and arduous hours Surgeries can require you to stand around for many hours at a time in an operating theatre. In addition, physician assistants have varying schedules so do not expect a fixed 40 hour routine. Depending on the hospital you work with evenings and weekend work will be entirely possible. You might also have to be on call or stand-by for emergency situations. |
