Introduction
Further Information
The University of Aberdeen is the first university in Scotland to launch a new Physician Assistant training programme that will help address healthcare provision as the needs and demands of the population change.
Students in Aberdeen have the opportunity to study a Postgraduate Diploma in Physician Assistant Studies in a thriving medical school that is co-located on one of the largest clinical sites in Europe with superb teaching and extensive research facilities.
The programme is fast paced and demanding and focuses on developing the necessary clinical skills and medical knowledge to be able to enter clinical practice. It will involve two years intensive training alongside medical students and other healthcare professionals. This rigorous programme is offered in partnership with NHS Grampian and a twelve-month paid internship with NHS Grampian will be available on successful completion of the programme.
What is a Physician Assistant?
Physician Assistants (PAs) are a new and emerging graduate profession which practices medicine in a team and under the supervision of a doctor. There are increasing numbers of Physician Assistants in the UK and throughout the world, employed in both primary care where they work in general practice teams and in secondary care where they work in hospital teams. Their exact duties depend on the medical speciality they are working in and the requirements of the team.
PAs are trained to carry out a complete physical examination, to make an initial diagnosis, to order and interpret investigations and develop an initial treatment plan for patients with a variety of illnesses under the supervision of a doctor. They may also carry out some procedures, under supervision, including assisting at operations. The competencies required are laid down by the Department of Health and increasing numbers of posts for PAs are being developed throughout the UK.
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