Physician Associates in Women's Health

What is a Physician Associate (PA)?

PAs work collaboratively in teams and are educated in a medical and surgical model. Because of their generalists training, PAs have flexibility in the types of medicine they can practice. That makes them responsive to changing healthcare needs. PAs are uniquely suited to provide preventive care services in all settings, from primary care to surgery. PA schooling is intense for an average of 27 months (3 academic years). This relatively short training period means that PAs can quickly begin practice, helping offset the worsening physician shortages and increasing access to care. Studies have consistently shown that PAs provide high-quality care with outcomes similar to physician-provided care. Additionally, studies have shown that incorporating PAs into an office or hospital practice can improve outcomes. Studies have also shown that patients are just as satisfied with medical care provided by PAs as with that provided by physicians and do not distinguish between types of care providers.

Download these guides learn how to reference PAs in the professional world:

PA's in OBGYN
Most PAs who practice with obstetrician-gynecologists work primarily in outpatient settings. According to NCCPA census data for 2019, 56.2 percent of PAs in obstetrics and gynecology work in an office-based private practice, while 31.2 percent manage the care of inpatients. PAs in ob-gyn also work in group practices, rural clinics, public clinics, community health centers, hospital outpatient clinics, urgent care centers, HMOs, and other settings where care is delivered. The work of PAs in outpatient ob-gyn settings is as diverse as the work of ob-gyn physicians. PAs provide both obstetrical and gynecological care, including comprehensive annual gynecological examinations. They evaluate and manage common gynecological conditions, including contraception, vaginal infections, sexually transmitted diseases, and menopausal problems. PAs are commonly included on teams that evaluate and treat infertility. They also provide prenatal, intrapartum, and postpartum care. In addition to direct patient examination and treatment, PAs also provide patient education and counseling on contraception, breast self-examination, prenatal care, childbirth, postnatal care, lactation, and other ob-gyn topics.

To download a full information sheet, click here.
Utilization of PAs in Practice
PAs work autonomously and in collaboration with physicians, augmenting a patient’s access to a comprehensive range of medical and surgical services to diverse patient populations. PAs’ rigorous education, versatility, and commitment to individualized treatment help physicians and practices function more efficiently and enhance continuity of health care.

Employers: Are you Looking to Advertise your PA Position?

This website is a valuable tool for connecting PAs with potential employers. Other opportunities also exist for networking and finding the right PA for your opening - POST YOUR PA POSITION ONLINE


Powered by Wild Apricot Membership Software