30th January 2024

A Physician Associate (PA) is a healthcare professional who works alongside doctors in hospitals, GP surgeries and other healthcare professionals to provide patient care. Physician Associates are trained to perform a variety of tasks, including taking medical histories, conducting physical examinations, diagnosing and treating illnesses, and prescribing medications.

Physician Associates are not the same as doctors, and they do not have the same level of training or autonomy. Instead, they work under the supervision of a qualified doctor and collaborate with the healthcare team to deliver comprehensive care to patients. The training for Physician Associates typically involves a two year postgraduate program after a degree in a life science or healthcare-related field. This means that those students who for various reasons to not choose to take  medical degree can still work in this field. Biological Science degrees do not for example require Chemistry A Levels like many medical degrees do.

Introduced almost two decades ago, the NHS now aims to boost the number of physician associates in England from approximately 4,000 to 10,000 to address significant workforce shortages. In Reading, the Royal Berkshire NHS Foundation Trust first welcomed physician associates into its ranks in 2015, and the number has since grown to 40 across 16 departments. These professionals wear distinct lanyards or badges clearly marked as "physician associate" and are required to inform patients and their families that they are not doctors.

One of these physicians is Sammy Chan. She emphasises the importance of clear communication in her role, stating, "I always explain and introduce myself to everyone. I clarify that I'm a physician associate, working alongside doctors and nurses. While I'm not a doctor, I am medically trained for specific tasks and can assist in providing care."

RESPONSBILITIES

Taking Medical Histories: PAs are trained to conduct thorough medical histories by interviewing patients and gathering information about their health, symptoms, and relevant medical background.

Physical Examinations: Physician Associates can perform physical examinations, such as checking vital signs, assessing the condition of various body systems, and conducting routine medical assessments.

Diagnosing and Treating: PAs are trained to make preliminary diagnoses and contribute to the development of treatment plans. They work under the supervision of a qualified doctor and collaborate with the healthcare team.

Prescribing Medications: Depending on the setting and local regulations, Physician Associates may have the authority to prescribe medications under the supervision of a doctor. The extent of prescribing rights can vary.

Ordering and Interpreting Tests: PAs can order and interpret diagnostic tests, such as blood tests, imaging studies, and other laboratory investigations, to aid in the diagnostic process.

Patient Education: PAs play a role in educating patients about their conditions, treatment plans, and preventive measures. They may provide information on lifestyle changes, medications, and follow-up care.

Assisting in Procedures: In some cases, Physician Associates may assist in medical procedures and surgeries, working alongside doctors and other healthcare professionals.

Team Collaboration: PAs work as part of a healthcare team, collaborating with doctors, nurses, and other healthcare professionals to ensure comprehensive and coordinated patient care.

Learn more: Physician associate job profile 

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