Physician Assistant, Certified (PA-C)

A highly trained and certified healthcare professional who works under the supervision of a licensed physician, providing medical care, conducting physical exams, and assisting in various healthcare procedures.

 

Certified (PA-C):

A designation indicating that a Physician Assistant has successfully completed the necessary education, clinical training, and passed the Physician Assistant National Certifying Exam (PANCE), demonstrating competence in the field.

 

Scope of Practice:

The range of medical services and tasks that a PA-C is authorized to perform, which may vary by state regulations and specialty.

 

Collaborative Care:

The practice of working closely with physicians and other healthcare professionals to deliver comprehensive patient care, leveraging the expertise of the entire healthcare team.

 

Interprofessional Collaboration:

The teamwork and communication between healthcare professionals of different disciplines, fostering a holistic approach to patient care and maximizing the strengths of each team member.

 

Continuing Medical Education (CME):

Ongoing educational activities and training that PAs participate in to stay current with medical advancements, enhance skills, and maintain certification.

 

Prescriptive Authority:

The legal permission for PAs to prescribe medications, a capability granted in many states, subject to specific regulations and collaboration with a supervising physician.

 

Telehealth:

The use of technology to provide healthcare services remotely, allowing PA-Cs to consult with patients, offer medical advice, and monitor health conditions from a distance.

 

Clinical Rotations:

The hands-on training experiences that PA-C students undergo in various medical specialties during their education, gaining practical skills in diverse healthcare settings.

 

Preceptorship:

A period during a PA-C’s training where they work closely with an experienced physician or PA mentor, gaining real-world experience and guidance in clinical practice.

 

Emergency Medicine:

A medical specialty where PA-Cs may work in emergency departments, providing immediate care to patients with acute illnesses or injuries.

 

Surgical Assistant:

PAs with a surgical specialty who assist in surgical procedures, including preoperative, intraoperative, and postoperative care, under the supervision of a surgeon.

 

Primary Care:

The branch of healthcare where PA-Cs often work as primary care providers, managing routine health concerns, preventive care, and coordinating patient care.