Physician Assistants (PAs) are licensed healthcare professionals who practice medicine under the supervision of physicians and surgeons. Their duties vary by setting and specialty, but here are the core responsibilities:
Patient Care:
Take medical histories and perform physical exams.
Diagnose and treat illnesses, injuries, and other health conditions.
Order and interpret diagnostic tests (X-rays, blood tests, etc.).
Clinical Procedures:
Perform basic medical procedures such as suturing, casting, and wound care.
Assist in surgeries or perform minor surgical procedures depending on state laws and specialization.
Prescribing Medications:
Prescribe medications, including controlled substances (varies by state law).
Monitor patients for reactions or side effects of medications.
Treatment Planning:
Develop and manage patient treatment plans.
Provide patient education on disease prevention, health maintenance, and management of chronic conditions.
Documentation:
Maintain accurate and detailed patient records in electronic health record (EHR) systems.
Team Collaboration:
Collaborate with physicians, nurses, and other healthcare providers to deliver coordinated care.
Participate in rounds and case discussions.
Patient Counseling:
Educate patients and their families about diagnoses, procedures, and at-home care. Multiple locations, Livonia- Dearborn-Hamtramck
Specialty-Specific Duties:
In surgical specialties: assist during operations and provide pre- and post-operative care.
In emergency medicine: evaluate acute conditions and trauma.
In primary care: conduct routine exams, vaccinations, and screenings.
Let me know if you need a job description or customized list for a particular medical setting (e.g., family practice, cardiology, surgery).