Who is a Physician Assistant?

A Physician Assistant or Physician Associate is also a type of healthcare professional. While these job titles are used internationally, there is significant variation in training and scope of practice from country to country, and sometimes between smaller jurisdictions such as states or provinces

What is the difference between a Physician assistant and a Doctors?

The duties that doctors and physician assistants perform are often similar and revolve around the care of patients. Although both positions can be lucrative and rewarding, it's important to consider the differences before committing to either career.

Here are some of the major ways in which physician assistants and doctors differ:

• Educations
• Specializations
• Work environments
• Salaries
• Job outlooks

Physician’s assistants provide preventative care, detect developing health problems and give advice to help patients develop healthy habits.

Physicians are also known as doctors and medical practitioners. Physician is a catch-all term for medical professionals who have earned a medical degree.

Physician Assistants (PAs) in Nigeria play a critical role in bridging the gap in healthcare delivery, especially in rural and underdeveloped areas.

Their responsibilities and scope of practice are as follows:

1. Medical Care: PAs perform physical examinations, diagnose Illnesses, develop treatment plans, and provide patient education. They often serve as primary care providers, particularly in areas with a shortage of physicians.
2. Procedures: They can perform various medical procedures such as suturing wounds, administering injections, and assisting in surgeries
3. Prescription Authority: In some regions, PAs have the authority to prescribe medications, though this can vary based on local regulations and the specific healthcare setting.
4. Collaboration: PAs work closely with physicians and other healthcare professionals, often acting as a liaison to ensure continuity of care
5. Education and Advocacy: They are involved in educating patients about health maintenance and disease prevention. PAs also advocate for patient access to quality healthcare services.

The profession is still evolving in Nigeria, with ongoing efforts to establish standardised training programs and regulatory frameworks to enhance the role and recognition of PAs in the healthcare system.