What are Physician Assistants ?

Physician assistants are health care professionals licensed to practice medicine with physician supervision.  As part of their comprehensive responsibilities, PAs conduct physical exams, diagnose and treat illnesses, order and interpret tests, counsel on preventive health care, assist in surgery, and in most states can write prescriptions.

PAs are trained in intensive education programs accredited by the National Commission on Certification of Physician Assistants.

Because of the close working relationship the PAs have with physicians, PAs are educated in the medical model designed to complement physician training. Upon graduation, physician assistants take a national certification examination developed by the National Commission on Certification of PAs in conjunction with the National Board of Medical Examiners. To maintain their national certification, PAs must log 100 hours of continuing medical education every two years and sit for a recertification every six years. Graduation from an accredited physician assistant program and passage of the national certifying exam are required for state licensure.

At Thunderbird Internal Medicine our PAs see many of our patients who need to be seen urgently.  Your physician reviews each visit you have with our PAs.  The PA frequently consults with your physician regarding your care.