What is a PA?

As most of you know Steve is attending PA school. He just finished is 2nd semester. We have been asked quite often, "What is a PA?" (which is a common question considering the profession has only been around for 40 years.) So I thought for those of you who don't really know, I could clear some things up for you. A PA is a Physicians Assistant. Meaning lower than a Doctor, but higher than a nurse on the medical food chain. A PA is the Doctor's "right hand man". (Because it is generally cheaper to staff a PA than share your practice...) You may have noticed that when you call a doctor's office they might say, "The Doctor won't be in that day, but would you like to see the PA?"
So, I guess the question really is, what is the difference between a Doctor and a PA?
Well, schooling for one. Steve only has 15 months of classroom work and the med students have 18 months. (It seems like 2 years because they have summers off.) Other than those 3 months there isn't much difference between their studies. Steve has the same professors and takes most of the same classes as the 1st & 2nd year med students. But, one of the main differences is experience. (Which is where you gain the most education anyway.) PA's only have 1 year of rotations, the med students have 2. The med students also have a residency. PA's do not. (Which is one of the most appealing things about the profession!) We also don't have to worry as much about malpractice insurance. The doctor's usually cover the PA, although we have had many people suggest Steve carry his own insurance as well.
Doctor's have the freedom to prescribe or do ANY procedure that they feel is needed. PA's have the freedom to prescribe or do any procedure that the Doctor gives them freedom to do. They can prescribe drugs, fully assist in surgeries, (which is what Steve wants to do) and even own their own practice in some rural areas! PA's have to certify every 6 years and Doctors actually don't have to certify, but some do.

The official definition is: A health care professional licensed to practice medicine under the supervision of a Physician.

All in all Physician Assistants are more than capable in helping patients. Especially if they've been in the field for years. So when the receptionist asks if you'd like to see the PA instead of the Doctor I hope you feel more confident in answering yes!