Physician assistants examine patients, take medical histories, order and perform medical tests and order or carry out treatment plans.
Physician assistants are always supervised, but the extent of supervision depends on state laws.
In some cases, they work quite independently, making calls to homes and clinics and reporting to a physician only a few times a week. Successful physician assistants have the same leadership skills, self-confidence and compassion that physicians need. If this describes you, maybe you will enjoy the responsibilities and rewards of being a physician assistant. Most physician assistants have a bachelor's degree, although certificates, associate's degrees and master's degrees are also available. Accredited physician assistant programs are usually found in allied health schools and four-year colleges, and to a lesser extent in community colleges and hospitals.