Over the past three decades medicine has undergone some radical changes. Medical center teams or group practices have nearly eliminated the traditional concept of a family doctor, and specialization in a particular field is normal for new medical students. The ongoing need to treat everyday non-emergency aches and pains has created an increased demand for physician assistants.
Doctor assistant programs originated during the 1960s, when it became obvious that many areas of the United States were impacted by a very uneven geographical distribution of qualified physicians, leaving some areas virtually without access to care. The first trainees were military medical personnel who needed to make a transition back to civilian life, and classes were based on practices established during World War II.
Today, most doctors rely heavily upon the work of similar aides. A modern medical office must remain in business by providing cost-effective care that moves people in and out efficiently. Medical support personnel are integral in making this process work in a professional, but patient-oriented manner. While some people might wonder why they are seeing an assistant rather than the actual doctor, the reasons soon become apparent.
The individuals doing these jobs are fully licensed health care professionals. They are allowed to make critical medical decisions under the supervision of their team leader, and can essentially practice medicine with certain limitations. They have the ability to conduct physical examinations, order any necessary tests, provide advice on preventive practices, and assist during surgery.
In addition, they are now allowed to write prescriptions in all fifty states and territories. While these workers are capable of handling many routine office visits that used to be completed by doctors, any unusual difficult or complicated situation is nearly always referred to the appropriate specialist or head physician. The scope of initial treatment these aides are permitted to perform varies by state.
The required education involves a considerable time investment. In addition to successfully completing a course of study, a preliminary bachelor's degree is a necessity. The courses are modeled after the traditional system of training physicians, and last up to three years. Post-studies include graduate programs resulting a master's degree, or even a doctorate in a related field of medicine.
After graduation, an assistant must be certified before actually being hired. That process highlights successful completion of basic formal training, in addition to passing a required test administered by the National Commission on Certification of Physician Assistants, an organization representing several related medical fields. Aides must also complete 100 hours of continuing education in two-year cycles, and retake the certification exam after six years.
The ultimate goal is to create a highly professional team of doctors and physician assistants. Even though a modern medical office can be overworked and understaffed, qualified aides make quicker treatment a reality, often with same-day appointments, and a more timely administration of tests, x-rays, and prescriptions. The quality of care remains high, and a specialist is always available for consultation if necessary.
Doctor assistant programs originated during the 1960s, when it became obvious that many areas of the United States were impacted by a very uneven geographical distribution of qualified physicians, leaving some areas virtually without access to care. The first trainees were military medical personnel who needed to make a transition back to civilian life, and classes were based on practices established during World War II.
Today, most doctors rely heavily upon the work of similar aides. A modern medical office must remain in business by providing cost-effective care that moves people in and out efficiently. Medical support personnel are integral in making this process work in a professional, but patient-oriented manner. While some people might wonder why they are seeing an assistant rather than the actual doctor, the reasons soon become apparent.
The individuals doing these jobs are fully licensed health care professionals. They are allowed to make critical medical decisions under the supervision of their team leader, and can essentially practice medicine with certain limitations. They have the ability to conduct physical examinations, order any necessary tests, provide advice on preventive practices, and assist during surgery.
In addition, they are now allowed to write prescriptions in all fifty states and territories. While these workers are capable of handling many routine office visits that used to be completed by doctors, any unusual difficult or complicated situation is nearly always referred to the appropriate specialist or head physician. The scope of initial treatment these aides are permitted to perform varies by state.
The required education involves a considerable time investment. In addition to successfully completing a course of study, a preliminary bachelor's degree is a necessity. The courses are modeled after the traditional system of training physicians, and last up to three years. Post-studies include graduate programs resulting a master's degree, or even a doctorate in a related field of medicine.
After graduation, an assistant must be certified before actually being hired. That process highlights successful completion of basic formal training, in addition to passing a required test administered by the National Commission on Certification of Physician Assistants, an organization representing several related medical fields. Aides must also complete 100 hours of continuing education in two-year cycles, and retake the certification exam after six years.
The ultimate goal is to create a highly professional team of doctors and physician assistants. Even though a modern medical office can be overworked and understaffed, qualified aides make quicker treatment a reality, often with same-day appointments, and a more timely administration of tests, x-rays, and prescriptions. The quality of care remains high, and a specialist is always available for consultation if necessary.
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