PAs (physician associates/physician assistants) are healthcare professionals who are nationally certified and state-licensed to practice medicine. PAs are trained to diagnose illness, develop and manage treatment plans and prescribe medication in every medical and surgical specialty and setting.  PAs practice in every state and the District of Columbia, providing care in every medical, surgical, and specialty setting, improving healthcare access and quality. 

PAs are educated at the graduate level, with most PAs receiving a Master’s degree or higher. To maintain national certification, PAs are required to re-certify as medical generalists every 10 years and complete 100 hours of continuing medical education every two years.  

PAs perform a comprehensive range of medical duties, from primary care to high-technology specialty procedures. PAs are recognized primary care providers trained to improve the health of patients during all stages of life.  They can perform office-based procedures or assist in major surgery and provide pre-and post-operative care.  PAs are skilled clinicians who practice team-based, patient-centered health care.