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High Paying Physician Assistant Jobs Readily Available
There are many different opportunities for Physician Assistants as they are able to work in any field of medicine, much in the same manner as a Physician can choose to specialize or work in different sectors of the medical field. Physician assistant jobs are readily available as there is an increasing demand for trained personnel in the burgeoning health care industry.
The P.A. position was created in order to help alleviate the shortage of practicing physicians that occurred during the 1960′s and which is still present today, especially in certain geographical areas. Basically, they are able to perform many of the same tasks a physician can, including examining and diagnosing patients, assisting in surgery and emergency room procedures, prescribing medicine, ordering various medical tests and providing follow up care and treatment. If a case is beyond their level of expertise they will be expected to refer it to their supervisory physician.
Over half of the registered and practicing P.A.’s work in the private health care sector, where they work in private clinics or private practices. They do not have to work directly under the immediate supervision of a physician and they may consult and receive supervision via phone or through online communications. In fact, some work in isolated locations without the presence of a registered physician, although they will still be assigned a supervisory physician who they are responsible to. Around one third are employed by private or public hospitals, with some specializing in surgery, obstetrics and gynecology and other medical fields. There are also many job opportunities in other sectors of society. They may work at prisons, schools, public health clinics and for private health care agencies.
Starting out, a P.A. can expect to earn anywhere from $63,000 to $77,000 annually. The salaries are based mainly on years of experience. By the time someone has been practicing for ten years this increases to where they can make from $76,000 to $96,000 per year. Salary is also based on the field of specialty, with the highest paying specialties Cardiovascular, emergency and critical care medicines and dermatology. P.A.’s can choose to opt for either a Bachelor or Master’s Degree, though in order to obtain a Master’s Degree you need to already have your Bachelor’s Degree.