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Physician Assistants

Health Science

Service Branches

  • Army logo
  • navy logo
  • Air Force logo
  • Coast Guard logo

Work Environment

Physician assistants work in hospitals and clinics on land and aboard ships.

  • Military Status

    Officer

  • Median Military Salary This is the median, or the midpoint, of the salary range for this career.

    $121,111

    Military Salary Range Salary varies based on years of service, degree level, special pays, family status and location.

    $41,853 - $292,243

Overview

Physician assistants are nationally certified health professionals who provide primary medical care, including diagnosing and treating diseases, and prescribing medication. They often work under the direction of a physician. When a physician is unavailable, physician assistants serve as the authority on determining medical necessity, priority, and requirements for emergency care, stabilization, and patient evacuation.

Military Training

Officers typically enter the Military after they have completed a four-year college degree; enlisted service members can transition to officer positions through a variety of pathways and earn a degree while serving. Job training for physician assistants primarily consists of classroom instruction including practice in providing patient healthcare and on-the-job learning in various training environments. Physician assistants often have the opportunity to teach research and learn at various health education programs. Like other officers working in healthcare they complete a comprehensive training program covering responsibilities orientation to military structure healthcare and etiquette traditions and leadership development. Job-specific training content may include:

  • Fundamental medical care procedures
  • Principles of behavioral and dental science
  • Healthcare administration techniques

Helpful Attributes

  • Ability to express ideas clearly and concisely
  • Desire to help others
  • Patience with others, especially those in pain or stress
  • Self-confidence and the ability to remain calm in stressful situations

Related Civilian Careers

  • Medical Assistants
  • Clinical Nurse Specialists