Becoming a physician assistant (PA) is an attractive career path for many people interested in the medical field. PAs play a critical role in healthcare, working alongside doctors to provide high-quality patient care However, the journey to become a PA can be long and challenging. In this article, we will walk through the step-by-step process of how to become a PA and how long it takes.
Overview of Physician Assistants
Physician assistants are medical professionals who diagnose illness, develop treatment plans, prescribe medication, and assist doctors with surgeries and procedures Their duties are similar to physicians, though PAs practice with a licensed doctor’s supervision
PAs typically work in hospitals, clinics and doctor’s offices. They conduct physical exams order tests, make diagnoses, provide treatment, and counsel patients on preventive healthcare. PAs can work in primary care or specialize in areas like surgery, emergency medicine, pediatrics, or psychiatry.
The role offers a high level of responsibility and patient interaction. PAs must have strong communication skills, critical thinking, and emotional intelligence. The ability to collaborate as part of an interdisciplinary team is also crucial.
Step 1: Earn a Bachelor’s Degree (4 years)
The first step to becoming a PA is completing a bachelor’s degree, which takes most students four years. While PA programs accept students from all undergraduate majors, it’s recommended to pursue a major in the sciences.
Some common bachelor’s degrees for aspiring PAs include:
- Biology
- Biochemistry
- Kinesiology
- Health Sciences
- Nursing
Coursework in anatomy, physiology, chemistry, microbiology, and biology will help prepare you for the rigorous PA program curriculum. Gaining hands-on experience in healthcare through internships or volunteering is also extremely valuable.
Step 2: Get Patient Care Experience (1-2 years)
After earning a bachelor’s degree, the next step is to get direct patient care experience. Most PA programs require applicants to have at least 2,000 hours of hands-on clinical experience.
Gaining this experience generally takes 1-2 years for full-time work. Jobs that provide good patient care experience include:
- Emergency medical technician (EMT)
- Medical assistant
- Nursing assistant
- Physical therapy aide
- Phlebotomist
Working directly with patients in roles like these allows you to demonstrate your ability to provide compassionate care. It also prepares you for the practical clinical training in PA school.
Step 3: Complete PA Prerequisites (1-2 years)
While gaining patient care experience, prospective PAs must complete all the prerequisite courses for PA school. Prerequisites vary by program but commonly include:
- Anatomy and physiology
- Biology
- Chemistry
- Microbiology
- Biochemistry
- Psychology
- Statistics
Some schools may require upper-level science courses as well. Completing prerequisites generally takes 1-2 years for part-time students. However, those taking full course loads can potentially finish more quickly.
It’s critical to research the exact prerequisites for your desired PA programs. These courses make up the foundation needed to succeed in the rigorous medical training.
Step 4: Apply to PA Programs (3-12 months)
With a bachelor’s degree, patient care experience, and prerequisites completed, the next step is applying to PA school. The application process takes substantial time and planning. Here are key steps:
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Take the GRE – Most programs require the Graduate Record Examination (GRE) exam. Schedule time to study and take the test.
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Secure references – PA programs request references, often 2-3 letters. Reach out early to allow time for them to be completed.
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Write your essay – The personal statement essay is crucial. Be sure to give yourself time to draft and refine this critical component.
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Complete CASPA – CASPA is the centralized application service for PA programs. Once ready, open your account and submit all materials.
From researching programs to gathering documents, completing CASPA, and interviewing, expect the process to take around 3-12 months. Thorough preparation and time management are essential.
Step 5: Complete PA School (2-3 years)
PA programs generally take 2-3 years to complete. The first year includes intensive classroom education in topics like anatomy, pharmacology, physiology, clinical medicine, and medical ethics. Lectures, simulations, and lab work prepare students to begin clinical rotations.
The second year focuses extensively on clinical rotations or clerkships. Students put their knowledge into practice across specialties like family medicine, pediatrics, surgery, emergency medicine, and psychiatry. The goal is to gain experience across diverse patient populations and medical issues.
After successfully completing coursework and clinical training, students earn a master’s degree. Programs award either a Master of Science in Physician Assistant Studies (MSPAS) or Master of Medical Science (MMS) degree. With this degree, graduates can proceed to certification and licensure.
Step 6: Get Certified and Licensed (2-3 months)
After graduating from an accredited PA program, candidates must pass the Physician Assistant National Certifying Exam (PANCE) administered by the National Commission on Certification of Physician Assistants (NCCPA). The PANCE is a 5-hour multiple choice exam that covers medical and surgical topics.
With a passing score, you will earn the PA-C credential. This allows you to apply for state licensure, which legally permits you to practice as a PA. The certification and licensing process typically takes 2-3 months beyond PA program graduation.
Total Time to Become a PA: 7-10 Years
In total, the journey to become a physician assistant takes between 7-10 years for most students. This includes:
- 4 years to earn a bachelor’s degree
- 1-2 years to gain patient care experience
- 1-2 years to complete prerequisites
- 3-12 months to apply and get into PA school
- 2-3 years to complete PA school
- 2-3 months to get certified and licensed
While it is a long road, PAs are rewarded with a high level of responsibility, autonomy, and the chance to really make a difference in healthcare. For those passionate about becoming a PA, the investment of time and hard work can yield an incredibly fulfilling career.
The lengthy journey emphasizes the importance of researching PA programs, gaining relevant experience, and thoughtfully preparing for each step along the path. With dedication and focus, this rewarding profession can absolutely be attained.
How Long Does It Take To Become a Physician Assistant? | The Posh PA
How do I become a physician assistant?
Like doctors, they may be on call, having to work on short notice for long periods. Interacting with patients and colleagues for hours can become fatiguing, so PAs should have good stamina and interpersonal skills. Obtaining a bachelor’s degree from an accredited college is the first step to becoming a physician assistant.
What is a physician assistant master’s degree?
A physician assistant master’s degree will help you gain the knowledge and skills to lead as a health care professional. With a PA degree, you will be ready to create healthier futures for patients. If you want to learn more about how to become a physician assistant, read on for answers to these important questions. What Are PA School Requirements?
How many hours do you need to become a physician assistant?
Usually, PA programs require at least 1,000 HCE or PCE hours. Every program is different, however, but minimum requirements can be found on PA schools’ websites, the Centralized Application Service for Physician Assistants (CASPA), or in the Applicant’s Manual of Physician Assistant Programs. 3. Apply.
How many hours do you need to become a PA?
Most PA programs require at least 1,000 HCE or PCE hours, typically earned after working for about a year in the health sector. Roles that meet clinical experience requirements include paramedic, medical technician, surgical assistant, hospice worker, dental assistant, physical therapy aide and phlebotomist.
