The demand for primary care practitioners is high, due in large part to the aging baby boomer population. Physician assistants are key players in the field of health care. If you are interested in primary care, this occupation could be worth your time to explore. Under the supervision of a physician, physician assistants are able to diagnose and treat illnesses. They are also able to prescribe medication.
Many people are attracted to this profession due to the amount of independence in working with patients, as well as a good job market. The path to become a physician assistant is not easy, however. In fact, physician assistant programs have become more competitive than medical schools for admission. Students must exhibit excellent grades, and many applicants have health care experience as a registered nurse or emergency medical technician. Physician assistant programs take between two and three years to complete.
For more information, the American Academy of Physician Assistants offers an article entitled, “Becoming a PA.”