Physicians Assistants are relatively new professionals in the health care field. The first class of physician assistants began their study in 1965 at Duke University to address the shortage of qualified caregivers. Physicians Assistants are important members of the medical profession whose responsibilities include examining patients, administering or ordering diagnostic tests, and compiling patient medical information. In addition, they can perform therapeutic procedures, counsel patients on proper diet and exercise as well as develop and implement patient management plans.

While they are not physicians, they are capable of performing many of the same duties and in most states, are allowed to prescribe medication. Due to their broad education, many physician assistants are the most experienced medical professional found on-site at hospitals and doctors offices. If you are interested in becoming a physicians assistant you should be sensitive to the problems of others, a good listener, and be interested in science. You must also be willing to continue your education since many states require physicians assistants to log as many as 100 hours of continuing medical education every 2 years to maintain their national certification. A two-year Associates degree is a must but many physicians assistants also hold at least a Bachelors degree. After graduation youll be required, in most states, to pass the national certification exam in order to be employed.

In 2004, the average wage in NY was: $54,890 for entry level workers and $99,970 for experienced workers. Does this sound like a job for you? Learn more about this job in CareerZone or visit the official site of the American Academy of Physician Assistants.