Physician assistants (PAs) are on the rise in the healthcare industry, with their numbers growing significantly in recent years. While there are still far fewer PAs than doctors in the U.S., the trend is shifting towards a greater reliance on these medical professionals to provide care to patients.
According to the National Commission on Certification of Physician Assistants (NCCPA), the number of certified PAs has increased by 28% from 2018 to 2022. This growth is crucial as the Association of American Medical Colleges predicts a shortage of as many as 48,000 primary care doctors by 2034.
PAs undergo rigorous training, including a two- to three-year PA program after completing a four-year college degree. They also accumulate a minimum of 2,000 clinical hours before entering the workforce, often with prior healthcare experience.
While PAs are not yet as numerous as doctors, they are increasingly playing a larger role in primary and specialty care. Patients may find themselves being seen by a PA instead of a physician during their appointments. It is important for patients to understand the role of PAs in their healthcare and to be informed if they will be seen by a PA instead of a doctor.
Overall, the rise of PAs in healthcare signifies a shift towards a more collaborative and efficient approach to patient care. As the healthcare landscape continues to evolve, PAs are poised to play a vital role in meeting the growing demand for medical services.