How Physician Assistant Became One of the Most In-demand Careers in Healthcare
Healthcare is changing, and some jobs are becoming more important than ever. One of the fastest-growing careers is the physician assistant, or PA. PAs work closely with doctors, treat patients, and help people stay healthy, making a real difference in the lives of others.
The demand for PAs keeps rising. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, PA jobs are expected to grow by 28% over the next ten years, which is much faster than most other careers. This growth is happening because more people need healthcare, and PAs are a key part of meeting that need.
Earning a doctorate in physician assistant studies can lead to even more opportunities. You’ll gain advanced skills in patient care and research, preparing you to take on leadership roles and solve real-world problems in healthcare. If you’re ready to help others and grow your career, this path offers a strong future.
The Origins of the Physician Assistant
The origins of the physician assistant profession can be traced back to the mid-20th century, born out of a need to address the shortage of primary care physicians in the United States. In 1965, Dr. Eugene Stead Jr. launched the first formal PA program, enlisting Navy corpsmen with medical experience to receive additional training and assist doctors in providing healthcare services.
Fast forward to the present day, and the demand for physician assistants has skyrocketed. Several factors contribute to this surge in demand. First, the aging population in many countries, including the U.S., has increased the need for healthcare services across the board. As more individuals require medical attention, the demand for qualified healthcare professionals like PAs has grown.
Furthermore, changes in healthcare policy and the evolving landscape of medical practice have also played a significant role in driving demand for PAs. With a greater emphasis on preventive care and expanding healthcare services to underserved communities, PAs have become invaluable assets, capable of providing high-quality care under the supervision of physicians.
Why the Physician Assistant Career Path Appeals to So Many
Physician assistants are becoming a top choice for people who want to work in healthcare. One reason is how quickly you can start your career. Unlike doctors, who spend four years in medical school and several more in residency, PAs usually earn a master’s degree followed by a doctorate. This path takes less time and still prepares you to provide high-quality care.
Another reason the PA profession stands out is versatility. PAs are trained to work in many areas, including family medicine, emergency care, surgery, psychiatry, and pediatrics. This allows them to switch specialties during their careers without needing more education. It also makes them valuable team members in different healthcare settings, from hospitals to clinics to private practices.
PAs have the skills to examine patients, diagnose illnesses, order and interpret tests, prescribe medicine, and perform minor procedures. They work under the supervision of licensed physicians, but in many states, they can work independently in certain situations. Their wide range of abilities helps meet the growing demand for healthcare providers across the country.
Teamwork, Technology, and the Future of PA Practice
The PA role is also built around collaboration. PAs work closely with doctors, nurses, specialists, and other healthcare staff. This team-based approach leads to better patient care and a stronger support system for everyone involved. It also creates more opportunities for PAs to learn and grow throughout their careers.
Technology is changing how PAs care for patients. Telemedicine allows them to connect with people in rural or underserved communities who may not have easy access to care. PAs can now review lab results, follow up with patients, and provide treatment plans through virtual appointments.
As the healthcare system continues to shift, PAs are stepping into leadership roles. Their mix of clinical knowledge, research experience, and adaptability puts them in a strong position to guide changes and improve patient outcomes. Whether in large hospitals, small clinics, or public health settings, PAs are helping shape the future of medicine.
The TUW Doctorate of Physician Assistant Program
The online Doctorate of Physician Assistant program from Touro University Worldwide is the only 100% online professional doctorate program without residency requirements. Students can earn their degree while working full-time, using lessons learned in their accumulated clinical experience.
Students in the program can choose from two concentrations. In Global Health, they learn to manage global and international healthcare organizations, emergency and disaster management agencies, and the implementation of policies for global health systems. In Healthcare Leadership, students learn how to guide healthcare organizations toward achieving their strategic goals.
The TUW program differs from other programs in a variety of ways. Instructors in the program have experience as physician assistants, doctors, and healthcare professionals who are actively involved in their own professional work or research areas. TUW also designed the program’s curriculum to directly apply to the student’s background, allowing graduates to succeed in their area of interest within the global healthcare industry.
