One of the main differences between PA education and physician education is not the core content of the curriculum, but the amount of time spent in school. A PA program runs approximately 108 weeks, compared to 153 weeks for the typical medical school program. Physicians also are required to do an internship, and the majority also complete a residency in a specialty following that. PAs do not have to undertake an internship or residency. A doctor has complete responsibility for the care of the patient.
PAs share that responsibility with the doctors.
Doctors are independent practitioners. PAs practice medicine with the supervision of a physician. The relationship between a PA and the supervising physician is one of mutual trust and respect. The Physician Assistant is a representative of the physician, treating the patient in the style and manner developed and directed by the supervising physician. In 1995, the American Medical Association developed suggested guidelines for how physicians and PAs should work as a team in the delivery of medical care.