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Physician Assistant (PA)

Physician assistants (PAs) are health professionals who practice medicine under a doctor's supervision in medical and surgical settings. They can perform routine exams, order lab work and X-rays, prescribe medicines, and counsel people about their health.

Physician assistants attend an accredited 2-year program after at least 2 years of college. After graduating, they are eligible to take the Physician Assistant National Certification Examination (PANCE).

Last Revised: August 20, 2010

Author: Healthwise Staff

Medical Review: Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine & E. Gregory Thompson, MD - Internal Medicine

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