Being a physician’s assistant is one of the most lucrative jobs out there in the healthcare field. A physician’s assistant is considered to be a medical provider that is licensed in their state to diagnose and treat illnesses as well as to prescribe different medications. A physician’s assistant will work closely with a physician in the physician’s practice. The assistant can perform nearly all of the same clinical duties that a physician can, including physical exams and treating different illnesses. A physician’s assistant does have to receive a formal education that is much like what a physician has to receive. This article will discuss Physician Assistant Course Requirements in Texas.
First and foremost, a physician’s assistant needs to receive formal training from a program that is approved by the Accreditation Review Commission on Education for the Physician Assistant (also known as ARC-PA). These programs are master’s degrees with a prerequisite of receiving a bachelor’s degree. Some experience in the healthcare field is also a necessity. The most common ways that a physician’s assistant will gain experience is by being a nurse, a paramedic, or an emergency medical technician (also known as an EMT).
Next, a physician’s assistant will receive approximately 26 to 27 months of full-time education to complete the physician’s assistant course. The first year of study in the classroom will focus on medical science as well as clinical preparations. Courses will include the study of pathology, pediatrics, and surgical techniques to name a few areas. After the first year of study is completed, the Physician Assistant Course Requirements in Texas will shift to clinical rotations and general surgery. Students may also receive training in behavioral medicine as well as gynecology. Once their initial study programs are completed, the physician’s assistant can then become licensed. It is imperative, however, that the physician’s assistant receives continuing education. Visit website to learn more.
Finally, becoming a physician’s assistant is something that one should heavily consider, especially if they love the healthcare field and helping patients. The average salary of a physician’s assistant is just over $95,000. If more information is required, regarding Physician Assistant Course Requirements in Texas, contact UAMS for more information.
