Key Points:
- Growing Demand for Physician Associates
The demand for physician associates is increasing rapidly, making it a promising career option. As healthcare systems expand, PAs are filling essential roles in both primary and specialized care. - Educational Pathway to Becoming a PA
To become a physician associate, you must first earn a bachelor’s degree in a related field, followed by completing a two-year specialized program. Afterward, you will obtain certification and can begin working in healthcare settings. - Opportunities for Medical Professionals
Individuals with a background in healthcare, such as nurses, can transition into the PA role by completing additional postgraduate courses. This makes the profession more accessible to those already in the medical field.
Physician associates, or physician assistants, aid the doctors in their regular practice. The demand for the profession is currently growing rapidly. Thus, it might be a good choice for a future career. So, if you are wondering how to become a physician associate, we are here to help. Read this article, and learn everything you need to know about the road to becoming a physician assistant!
How to become a physician assistant: the requirements
Not everyone may become a physician associate. In order to do so, it is required to obtain a bachelor’s degree in related studies. Moreover, before becoming a physician assistant, you must complete a 2-year-long course. These courses usually end with a master’s degree.
A BA might not be the only requirement for a PA school. In some cases, experience working with patients might be needed as well. It is possible to gain it through shadowing physicians or taking part in volunteer programs. Thus, you need to make good use of clinical opportunities for premed students, keeping in mind that you have to be physically present near the patients or work directly with them.
After the course, you will obtain a certificate, and you can start working as a PA in hospitals and clinics.
How to prepare for a physician associate school interview?
Think about the PA school interview like you think about a standard job interview. You can expect to be asked questions such as:
- Why did you choose this particular school?
- Why do you want to become a physician associate?
- What healthcare experience do you have?
Make sure to look professional and prepare your answers beforehand.
Can a physician assistant become a physician general?
A physician assistant cannot become a physician general directly. Think how long does it takes to become a physician general. Doctors need to complete a medical school, then they become residents and finally full-on physicians. But, since the PA course is at the same level as medical school, it is impossible to advance from a physician associate to a physician general. However, if you decide that it is time to become a physician, you might always apply for med school – it should be much easier, since you will have the experience from your work as a PA.
Can other medical professions become physician associates?
Other medical professionals might be able to quickly become physician assistants. For instance, qualified nurses can become physician associates by completing postgraduate courses. This career path is open for anybody who has a background in medical studies – after all, they have to complete similar BA courses as those who aimed at becoming PAs from the start.
In fact, many programs offer accelerated options for individuals with healthcare experience. This provides a great opportunity for those already working in the medical field to expand their qualifications and step into the role of a physician associate.
The takeaway: Final Steps to Becoming a Physician Associate
We hope that now you know how to become a physician associate. All you need to do is complete a medical-related BA, apply for a 2-year-long course and complete it. Thus, even other medical professionals, such as nurses, can become physician assistants. Yet, it is still impossible to get promoted from a PA to a physician general.
If you are not convinced by this career path, check other options and read our article on easy careers in the medical field.
