Working under the supervision of physicians, they provide diagnostic and therapeutic care emphasizing primary care, but encompassing a range of specialties. From psychiatry to pediatrics and from obstetrics-gynecology to orthopedic surgery, they work in a variety of settings, ranging from hospitals and clinics to correctional facilities and emergency rooms. Typically physician assistants obtain patients' medical histories, perform complete physical examinations, order and interpret routine diagnostic tests, develop diagnostic and management plans, provide treatment for persons with acute and chronic illnesses, including minor surgical procedures and respond appropriately to life-threatening emergencies.
PAs educate patients regarding illness, health promotion, and disease prevention.
They also facilitate patient referral to community health and social service agencies. The astute medical care delivery system has recognized the role of PAs in increasing availability of medical care, promoting cost effectiveness and the resultant savings of healthcare dollars, and improving the effectiveness and productivity of their supervising physicians. Licensed in all 50 states, physician assistants are held in high esteem by their peers in the medical pr o fession and consistently achieve high levels of patient satisfaction and acceptance. The clinical role of physician assistants includes primary and specialty care in medical and surgical practice settings in rural and urban areas. Physician Assistants practice is centered on patient care and may include educational, research, and administrative activities.