The rest of Mr. Alston's time is taken up by his role as an educator. One of his main duties is developing and evaluating clinical sites around the state for students in the University's PA program. He also teaches class, lectures on a variety of medical subjects and handles administrative duties. What We Do Physician's assistant is a relatively new medical profession. It started just over 30 years ago in response to a shortage of doctors in rural areas and urban neighborhoods.
PAs work in emergency rooms, operating rooms, primary care offices and clinics.
They treat wounds, stabilize patients, monitor recovery and diagnose new patients. And you get the opportunity to provide hands-on care for patients under the guidance of a physician. Before applying he suggests researching the field, meeting a practicing PA, and visiting an active health care setting. One of the things that attracts people to the PA profession is that a medical background isn't necessarily a requirement. People with backgrounds in liberal arts and education often become excellent PAs.