What is Physician Assistant?: Course Fees 2025, Subjects, Top Colleges, Admissions

Physician Assistant course is for all prospective individuals who want to pursue a profession in healthcare. A physician assistant is one such person who works under the supervision of a physician.

The duties include providing services such as illness diagnosis, primary treatment, drugs, first-aid, and other services in the absence of a physician. Enrol in a reputable institute to pursue a medical speciality for a Physician Assistant course. The Physician Assistant course training prepares candidates to meet the medical demands of a patient. 

A Physical Assistant's position is frequently confused with that of a nurse practitioner. While they perform the same function, their training and specialisation options are vastly different. A Physical Assistant receives general medicine training and is educated in a disease-centred curriculum approach similar to that of a medical student. They can also specialise in a variety of fields after receiving their degree.

Nurse practitioners, on the other hand, are trained in advanced nursing roles using a patient-centred education and practice model. In addition, before beginning their graduate programme, they usually choose a primary speciality and work with that specific patient population.

The Physician Assistant course focuses on developing clinical skills to assist doctors in diagnosing, treating, and managing patients. PAs work closely with doctors in patient care, conducting physical exams, interpreting lab results, and assisting in medical procedures.

In contrast, the Medical Laboratory Technology course trains individuals to perform laboratory tests, analyze specimens, and provide data to support diagnoses.
While both careers are healthcare-oriented, Physician Assistants are more involved in direct patient interaction and clinical decision-making, whereas MLT professionals primarily work behind the scenes, analyzing test results and helping diagnose conditions through laboratory work. Both fields are vital to patient care but serve different roles.

No, in India, NEET is not typically required for admission into Physician Assistant courses. Admission to PA programs usually depends on Class 12 scores.

However, requirements can vary between institutions, so it's always best to check the specific admission criteria of the programme you are interested in.

Yes, it is possible to pursue a BSc Physician Assistant after completing a BSc in Visual Communication, but it depends on the admission requirements of the institution. Most BSc Physician Assistant programs require a Science background, especially in subjects like Biology, Chemistry, and Physics, at the 10+2 level.

If you meet the eligibility criteria and are willing to make the switch to the healthcare field, you can apply for Physician Assistant course. Additionally, some institutions may require you to appear for an entrance exam or have prior knowledge in science-related subjects to ensure a smooth transition.

In India, many colleges offering the Physician Assistant course admit students based on merit rather than entrance exams. Admission is typically determined by the candidate's performance in their 12th-grade exams, particularly in subjects like Biology, Physics, and Chemistry.

Some colleges may also consider other factors such as overall academic performance or conduct interviews to evaluate the candidate's suitability for the course. Students should check individual college websites for specific admission details and criteria.

Yes, students must have completed their 12th grade with a Science stream, typically with subjects like Biology, Physics, and Chemistry. These subjects are crucial because the Physician Assistant course heavily involves medical Science concepts. Some colleges may offer flexibility with subject combinations, but having a background in life sciences is essential for understanding the medical knowledge needed.
Candidates with a non-medical background, particularly those without Biology in 12th grade, may find it difficult to meet the basic eligibility criteria for this course. Therefore, it is advisable to choose the Science stream with relevant subjects if pursuing a Physician Assistant career.

Typically, students from non-science backgrounds are not eligible for the Physician Assistant course, as the programme requires a strong foundation in subjects like Biology, Physics, and Chemistry. These subjects form the core of the course’s curriculum.

However, some institutions may have specific provisions for students with alternative qualifications or preparatory programs, so it is advisable to check the eligibility criteria of each institution.

Major subjects for Physician Assistant courses often include:

• Anatomy and Physiology
• Pathology
• Pharmacology
• Clinical Medicine
• Physical Examination Techniques
• Medical Ethics and Professionalism
• Surgical Procedures
• Pediatrics
• Internal Medicine
• Emergency Medicine
• Preventive Medicine
• Psychiatry and Behavioral Health
• Clinical Skills and Patient Care

Physician Assistant students typically study a range of subjects to prepare for their roles in healthcare. 

Major subjects often include:

• Anatomy and Physiology

• Pharmacology

• Clinical Medicine

• Pathology

• Microbiology

• Physical Diagnosis

• Medical Ethics and Law

Yes, the Physician Assistant course includes practical training and internships as an integral part of the curriculum. The course structure combines classroom learning with hands-on clinical exposure, providing students the opportunity to apply theoretical knowledge in real-world healthcare settings. Internships are typically carried out in hospitals, clinics, and diagnostic centers, where students work closely with doctors and healthcare professionals.
Practical training is crucial for developing the clinical skills required for the job, such as taking patient histories, assisting in examinations, and performing diagnostic procedures. Internships also provide insights into the day-to-day responsibilities of a Physician Assistant.

After completing a Physician Assistant course in India, several options can enhance your career prospects or align with your interests.

Here are a few possibilities:

• Master’s in Physician Assistant
• MPH
• MBA in Hospital Administration
• Clinical Research

No, a BSc Physician Assistant is not equal to a doctor. While PAs are trained to provide a range of medical services and work closely with physicians, they do not have the same level of training or scope of practice as doctors.

The Physician Assistant works under the supervision or in collaboration with a physician. PAs can perform many of the same tasks as doctors but must work within the scope defined by their supervising physician or practice regulations. Whereas, the ddoctore has full autonomy to diagnose, treat, and manage all aspects of patient care. Doctors are also responsible for making complex medical decisions and leading healthcare teams.

While PAs play a crucial role in the healthcare system and can provide high-quality care, they do so within a framework that supports and supervises their work.

Because Physician Assistant have the chance to succeed in practically any specialist field of medicine, the roles, specialisations, and sub-specialities of physician assistants are diverse. Throughout their careers, Physician Assistants can choose to specialise in one or more areas. The versatility of the Physician Assistant function is a significant asset. Some of the more prevalent specialities are:

• Anaesthesia

• Anaesthesia

• Emergency medicine

• ENT/Otolaryngology

• Family medicine

• General practice

• Internal medicine

• Neurology

• Obstetrics and gynaecology (OB/GYN)

• Anaesthesia

• Paediatrics

• Surgery

The following colleges offer Diploma and Certificate in Physician Assistant courses:

Hi, St. Francis College for Women | Begumpet, Hyderabad provides Advanced Post Graduate Diploma in Physician Assistant, PG Diploma Full Time.

Duration - 2 years. 

https://www.shiksha.com/medicine-health-sciences/paramedical/colleges/physician-assistant-colleges-india?uaf[]=credential&ts=81619233&rf=filters&sp[]=404&cl[]=15&cr[]=10.

In India, the annual fees for a Physician Assistant course generally range from INR 50,000 to INR 1,50,000, depending on the institution.

Private institutions may charge higher fees compared to government colleges.

Yes, after 12th in PCB, candidates can pursue the Physician Assistant course. Following are the best colleges to pursue Physician Assistant course from:

Finding affordable colleges for a Physician Assistant course can be challenging, as tuition costs vary widely. It's essential to research each programme thoroughly and consider factors like location, programme length, and additional fees when evaluating affordability.

Candidates can look at the table below to learn more about the best affordable colleges that offer Physical Assistant courses under INR 1 Lakh.

Note: This information is sourced from the official website and may vary.

A Physician Assistant is a health care practitioner who works with a doctor. While they have many of the same responsibilities as doctors, they do not have the same amount of authority. Physician assistants work in all fields of medicine, examining, diagnosing, and treating a wide range of patients.

The following are some of the primary responsibilities of a medical assistant:

• Examine the medical histories of the patients

• Examine patients in order to provide an accurate diagnosis.

• Order and evaluate diagnostic testing like X-rays.

• Diagnose injuries or illnesses in patients

• Create and oversee patient treatment strategies.

• Help with patient surgeries

• As needed, prescribe drugs.

Physician Assistants provide diagnostic and therapeutic patient care in practically all medical disciplines and settings, working together with physicians. Patients' histories are taken, physical examinations are performed, laboratory and diagnostic testing are ordered, drugs are prescribed, and treatment programmes are developed.

Clinical practice, patient education, team leadership, medical education, health administration, and research are all part of their job descriptions, which are as varied as those of their supervising physicians.

As with other medical professionals, working as a physician assistant can be demanding and stressful. This position essentially makes you responsible for the lives of your patients. Given the nature of the job, you may feel stressed even while caring for patients under the supervision of a physician.

Physician assistants are often forced to execute a number of duties on a tight timeline, which adds to the job's stress. Fortunately, there are various ways to promote relaxation, such as having dinner with friends after work or going for a brief walk outside for some fresh air.

It can be slightly tough to become a Physician Assistant in a specialised course.

Advanced training is frequently required to specialise in a specific subject. In order to practise in a speciality or sub-speciality, Physician Assistants must typically undergo a fellowship or residency. Additional training requirements, certifications, roles, and responsibilities, as well as factors such as pay, differ by speciality field.

For a variety of reasons, a physical therapist may wish to progress to the position of Physician Assistant. To become a physician assistant, a physical therapist must either fulfil or complete the prerequisites and higher education criteria required to apply to a physician assistant programme.

They will need to become qualified as a physician assistant after completing a two-year physician assistant programme.

Physician Assistants in India generally earn varying salaries based on their specialization, experience, and the sector they work in. Physicians, including specialists and general practitioners, tend to earn higher salaries compared to other healthcare professionals. 

Candidates can check the level-wise salary of a Physician Assistant in India.

• Entry-Level: INR 2 - 3 LPA

• Mid-Level: INR 3 - 4.5 LPA

• Senior-Level:  INR 4 - 5 LPA

Yes, you can pursue a Master's in Occupational Therapy (MOT) after completing a BSc in Physician Assistant, provided you meet the eligibility criteria set by the institutions offering the program.

Some universities may require you to have a background in specific healthcare courses, but many accept students from allied health disciplines like Physician Assistant.

In terms of high salary potential, some of the best PG courses in India include:

Many Physician Assistants work full-time and work more than 40 hours each week. As a physician, you may be required to work odd hours, such as at night, on weekends, and even on holidays. Your company may also ask you to work on call, which means you must respond to work requests at any time.

A Physician Assistant's particular responsibilities are established by their supervising physician and state law, however, they perform many of the same functions as a primary care physician. They work in all 50 states and in a wide range of clinical settings and specialities.

A Physician Assistant's functions and responsibilities on a normal day include:

• Making rounds and examining patients

• Illness diagnosis

• Providing assistance during surgery

• Ordering and interpreting laboratory and X-ray tests

• Medication prescriptions

• Creating and implementing treatment plans

• recommending preventative care and healthy lifestyle options to people

No, while Physician Assistants collaborate with a supervising physician, this does not imply that they are directly supervised by a physician.

Most work on their own, under the confines of a state-defined scope of practice. For example, each state has its own set of rules and regulations governing the types of medications that a Physician Assistants may prescribe. Anything not on that list necessitates extra consultation with a physician.

A Physician Assistant plays a vital role in a healthcare team by supporting doctors in patient care. They conduct physical exams, gather medical histories, order and interpret diagnostic tests, prescribe medications, and assist in surgeries. Their responsibilities often overlap with those of doctors, but they work under supervision, ensuring that the doctor's directives are carried out effectively.
Physician Assistants also provide education to patients, help manage chronic conditions, and assist in administrative tasks. Their role is to ensure that healthcare teams operate smoothly and efficiently, improving patient outcomes and optimizing doctor-patient interactions.

A Physician Assistant is a trained medical professional who works under the supervision of a licensed physician. Unlike doctors, they do not have independent practice rights and must work as part of a medical team.

However, within their role, PAs can assist in medical procedures, diagnose conditions, and support treatment planning. Their level of autonomy depends on institutional policies and regional healthcare regulations.

Yes, there are growing opportunities for Physician Assistants in telemedicine and digital healthcare. With the rise of remote healthcare services, Physician Assistants can assist doctors in providing virtual consultations, monitoring patients' progress, and managing treatment plans through telemedicine platforms. They can conduct online assessments, guide patients in managing chronic conditions, and provide follow-up care.
Telemedicine has expanded the role of healthcare professionals, and Physician Assistants can contribute by ensuring continuous care and facilitating patient-doctor interactions, especially in remote areas where access to healthcare professionals is limited.

Yes, Physician Assistants can pursue higher studies such as an MSc or even a PhD. After completing their Bachelor's degree, they can opt for specialisation in fields such as healthcare management, clinical research, or medical education. Some may choose to pursue a Master's in Public Health (MPH) or a Master's in Medical Science (MSc).
A PhD, although rare for Physician Assistants, may be pursued in areas like clinical research or medical education. Higher studies can enhance career prospects, lead to leadership roles, and provide opportunities in academia or specialised healthcare fields.

Physician Assistants play an essential role during surgeries or medical procedures by assisting the surgical team. They may help prepare the operating room, monitor patient vitals, assist in surgical procedures, and manage post-operative care. Their responsibilities can also include preparing patients for surgery, ensuring proper sterilization, and assisting in anesthesia administration.
They support doctors by ensuring procedures are carried out smoothly and efficiently, allowing for optimal patient outcomes. Their presence enhances the overall functioning of the surgical team and helps in providing continuous patient care during critical medical procedures.

Physician Assistants play an important role in managing chronic diseases by assisting doctors in monitoring patient progress, educating patients about their condition, and helping them manage treatment plans. They work with patients who suffer from conditions such as diabetes, hypertension, and asthma, ensuring they adhere to prescribed medications, follow lifestyle modifications, and attend regular check-ups.

Physician Assistants also help patients track their symptoms, adjust medications, and provide emotional support, making them an integral part of the healthcare team in chronic disease management.

Yes, there are opportunities for Physician Assistants in research and clinical trials. They can work with research teams in medical institutions or pharmaceutical companies, assisting in patient recruitment, monitoring trial participants, collecting data, and ensuring that trial protocols are followed. 

Physician Assistants with clinical expertise are valuable assets in these settings.
Their ability to interact directly with patients and their understanding of medical procedures makes them ideal for roles in clinical research. This can lead to career advancement in research, clinical trial management, or regulatory affairs.

In India, Physician Assistants cannot independently prescribe medications or perform surgeries. They work under the supervision of a licensed doctor and follow the prescribed treatment plans. While they may assist doctors during surgeries and help in providing medications, they are not authorized to make independent decisions about prescriptions or perform surgical procedures without direct supervision.
Their role is collaborative, helping doctors deliver comprehensive care but within the scope of their training and legal regulations.

Currently, there is no national certification or licensing body for Physician Assistants in India. However, some institutions may provide certification upon completion of the course. The profession is regulated in other countries, but India does not have standardized regulations for Physician Assistants yet. It is advisable for students to choose accredited institutions offering recognised degrees.
Certification may become more important in the future as the demand for Physician Assistants grows, and regulations around healthcare professionals become more formalized.

Physician Assistants significantly reduce the workload of doctors by handling routine tasks like taking patient histories, performing physical exams, and managing patient records. They also assist in diagnosing and administering treatments under the supervision of a doctor. By taking on these responsibilities, Physician Assistants free up doctors to focus on more complex cases and critical medical decisions.
This collaborative approach enhances the overall efficiency of healthcare systems, allowing healthcare professionals to manage more patients effectively while maintaining quality care.

Physician Assistants and Doctors have distinct roles within the healthcare system, but they often collaborate closely to provide patient care. While both are essential to patient outcomes, their responsibilities differ, with doctors having more extensive training and independence.

Here's a comparison of their responsibilities in a table format:

In summary, a Physician Assistant assists doctors in patient care with specific tasks, while doctors hold the ultimate responsibility for medical decisions and care.