What is a “PA” – Physician Assistant?

A PA (Physician Assistant or Physician Associate) is a medical provider that has
completed a Master’s Degree in clinical medicine. Throughout school, a PA is trained in all types of medicine including extensive hands-on experience in various medical specialties and subspecialties. After graduation, a PA must obtain national certification and is required to recertify every 10 years.

PAs are utilized in all different types of medical practices and hospitals. We are able to interview, examine and diagnose patients, develop and manage treatment plans, prescribe medications, physical therapy and testing (lab work, radiographic studies, etc), and function as a patient’s primary care provider.

Specifically, at BCOS, we work alongside our surgeons in the OR and the office to
provide a team approach in all stages of the patient’s treatment. Often, we are able to facilitate same or next day appointments and complete the appropriate work-up for our physicians’ subsequent management. We perform procedures such as splinting, casting, suturing and staple removal, as well as aspiration and injections independently at the office. We act as the first assistant in the OR, helping with many essential portions of the surgery. Our PAs always function in conjunction with a physician to ensure that we accommodate our patients’ needs in a safe and timely manner.