PAs are proven and integral members of the U.S. healthcare system. But what exactly do PAs do? And who decides? The boundaries of each PA’s scope of practice are determined by these parameters: education and experience; state law; policies of employers and facilities, and the needs of the patients. 

A summary of PAs in team-oriented care models.

Conquer clinical rotations! Learn common do’s and don’ts with our video and get even more helpful and detailed tips with our guide.

Be ready to explain PA practice to potential employers and share the ways you can contribute to medical care.

Program directors share collected wisdom to ensure you make it through your clinical phase, plus student resources to help you along the way.

Huddle, AAPA’s members-only online community, fosters discussion amongst PAs and serves as a repository for helpful career-related information. Recently, seasoned PAs shared their best advice for PA students and new grads.

What is a PA (physician associate/physician assistant)? PAs are licensed clinicians who practice medicine in every specialty and setting.

During Clinical Rotations you will put your theoretical medical knowledge to the test in real-world clinical settings. Under the supervision of a preceptor, you will be placed on health teams in several different medical settings and specialties.

Professional competencies for physician assistants include the effective and appropriate application of medical knowledge, interpersonal and communication skills, patient care, professionalism, practice-based learning and improvement, and systems-based practice.

A PA (physician associate/physician assistant) is a nationally certified and state-licensed medical professional. Learn how to acquire the experience you need for PA school and how to get and maintain your certification.