The physician assistant programs include instruction in nutrition, biochemistry, human anatomy and physiology, disease prevention, clinical medicine, pharmacology, and medical ethics. The students also participate in rotations that offer clinical training in a variety of areas such as emergency medicine, family medicine, internal medicine, obstetrics and gynecology, pediatrics, psychiatry, and surgery. The requirements for licensure include completion of a program that is approved by the Florida Board of Medicine and national certification. To become nationally certified, applicants must graduate from a program that is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs and pass a certifying examination given by the National Commission on Certification of Physician Assistants. PAs must be recertified by passing an exam or completing continuing education hours and a take-home exam every two years.
Income varies by specialty, practice setting, geographical location, and years of experience.