Physician assistants take on many of the same duties as medical doctors do. They see and treat patients, provide diagnoses, run tests, and more. They may prescribe medication or monitor a patient’s chronic conditions. The key difference between the two positions is the physician’s assistant or PA must work under a licensed doctor.
Where Physician Assistants Work
Physician assistants work in a variety of settings. They might work in a doctor’s office, a hospital, or a clinic. Some PAs work in rural settings and handle medical care for residents, so the supervising doctor can travel between locations overseeing multiple physician assistants. However, some PAs work in government or an education setting, depending on what they prefer when it comes to their schedule and duties. Many people wonder what a PA can expect to earn in these settings.
Physician Assistant Salary
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median salary for a PA in May 2022 was $126,010. Half of those individuals working as a physician assistant made more than this amount, and the other half made less. Those in the lowest ten percent made under $83,820. PAs in the top ten percent brought home more than $168,120. Why is there such a discrepancy in the pay?
The location in which a PA works plays a role in how much they earn. Men and women working in outpatient care centers typically have the highest PA pay, earning a median wage of $134,180. For those who choose to function as a PA in educational services, the pay drops significantly. These individuals can expect to earn a median wage of $107,410.
In addition, the geographical location of the job plays a role in how much a PA will pay. U.S. News and World Report states PAs working in Portsmouth, New Hampshire; Panama City, Florida; and San Francisco, California have the highest PA wages in the country. The city isn’t the only thing to consider when comparing PA salaries. The top five states in terms of PA salary are Rhode Island, Alaska, Connecticut, New Jersey, and New Hampshire.
Job Outlook
The medical field remains in critical need of professionals. Shortages persist today, meaning PAs will be able to find work easily. In fact, the projected job outlook for this field in the coming years is excellent. Experts predict the job outlook will grow 27 percent between 2022 and 2032. The need for PAs is driven in part by the aging population. Older individuals need more healthcare, and PAs help provide this care.
Physician assistants fulfill many of the same duties medical doctors do. However, they spend less time in school, meaning they can help patients sooner and fill the need for trained professionals. As a result, they will continue to be in high demand now and in the future. Anyone working in this field will find they have countless job opportunities open to them.
Becoming a Physician Assistant
Physician assistants typically spend two years in school upon receiving their undergraduate degree. Upon completion of their studies, the applicant must successfully pass a licensing exam. They can then provide services under the supervision of a licensed medical doctor. As with most fields in the healthcare industry, the PA must take part in continuing education to maintain their license.
Working as a PA is a rewarding career. Men and women who take on this role help people improve their lives every day. Learn more about this exciting career, as it may be exactly what you need to have a job you love and look forward to every day.