Why We Need Physician Assistants

In many ways, Physician Assistants are like the nerve center of an orthopedic practice.

Have you ever had to schedule an appointment to see the doctor? Probably so. Nationally certified and state-licensed medical professionals who work alongside physicians, PAs play an enormous role allowing patients to schedule appointments sooner than they might have been able to otherwise. They are also a crucial part of patient education -- often answering questions patients may not want to ask their doctors.

PAs are able to:

• Assess, diagnose and treat conditions
• Create treatment plans
• Manage and design preventative care
• Assist with surgery
• Prescribe medication
• Conduct physical exams

PAs can work in all medical specialties and go through residency-type rotations in most major specialties, meaning they’re knowledgeable in many fields. OrthoCarolina has more than 90 PAs in our locations. Even in a growing practice they help keep our clinics running smoothly, and most importantly, our patients taken care of.

Happy National PA Week -- and to our Physician Assistants, thank you for doing what you do.