|
|
| History |
|
The PA profession began in 1965 at Duke University where the first PA program consisted of four former medical corpsmen. In 1971, the essentials for PA education were adopted by the American Medical Association (AMA) in collaboration with the following physician groups:
The American Academy of Physician Assistants (AAPA) was established in 1968 and represents the interests of PAs on a national level. |
| Education |
 There
are many PA programs throughout the United States found in medical
schools, colleges, universities, hospitals, and the armed services.
Programs are accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of
Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP). Prerequisites for
application vary. Some programs require a bachelor's degree and
most require undergraudate hours in science and humanities. Admission
is highly competitive with some programs receiving 10-15 applicants
per slot. Length of the programs average 25 months. Graduates
are awarded certificates, baccalaureate, or master degrees. |
| Practice Credentials |
|
The National Board of Medical Examiners prepares a national board exam for PAs. It is administered by the National Commission on Certification of Physician Assistants (NCCPA). In order to sit for this exam, one must be a graduate of a CMHEP accredited program. Many states require initial NCCPA certification for PA licensure. To maintain current national certification, a PA must log 100 hours of continuing medical education (CME) every two years and pass an NCCPA recertification exam every six years . Individual practice and hospital settings address certification requirements to maintain medical and/ or allied staff privileges. |
| A Bright Future |
| The United States Department of Labor projected a 36% increase in the number of PA jobs by the year 2005. Employers receive reimbursement for physician services provided by PAs under Medicare, Champus, AHCCCS, and most private insurance companies. |
Antietam UroSurgical
Center, L.L.C., ASC
Antietam Center
for Men's Health, L.L.C.
301-733-0022 •
1-888-326-0022
11110
Medical Campus Road
Suite 228
Hagerstown, MD 21742