Physician Assistants

Physician Assistants typically perform the following tasks: • Make tentative diagnoses and decisions about management and treatment of patients. • Interpret diagnostic test results for deviations from normal. • Prescribe therapy or medication with physician approval. • Obtain, compile, and record patient medical data, including health history, progress notes, and results of physical examination. • Examine patients to obtain information about their physical condition. • Administer or order diagnostic tests, such as x-ray, electrocardiogram, and laboratory tests. • Instruct and counsel patients about prescribed therapeutic regimens, normal growth and development, family planning, emotional problems of daily living, and health maintenance. • Perform therapeutic procedures, such as injections, immunizations, suturing and wound care, and infection management. • Visit and observe patients on hospital rounds or house calls, updating charts, ordering therapy, and reporting back to physician. • Provide physicians with assistance during surgery or complicated medical procedures. • Supervise and coordinate activities of technicians and technical assistants. • Order medical and laboratory supplies and equipment. • Refer patients to other healthcare providers.