Physician associates (PAs) are medically trained, generalist healthcare professionals, who work alongside doctors and provide medical care as an integral part of the multidisciplinary team. PAs are practitioners working with a dedicated medical supervisor, but are able to work autonomously with appropriate support.

The role of a PA is varied, dynamic and versatile. As medically trained generalist healthcare professionals, PAs work alongside doctors to provide high-quality patient care. They are a fundamental part of the multidisciplinary team (MDT) and work in over 40 specialties across primary, secondary and community care environments.

PAs were introduced in the UK in 2003 and are committed to providing continuity of care for patients and bringing stability to the wider workforce. PAs work with multiple members of the healthcare team including trainee doctors, consultants, nurses and pharmacists.

As a rapidly growing profession, PAs are committed members of the MDT and have a wide and varied scope of medical practice. They work within the limits of the profession’s competence, which continues to evolve as PAs take on more autonomous working.

Physician associates and endoscopy statement from the BSG.

Get in touch

If you would like to be introduced to one of our PA representatives, please contact the BSG office at comms@bsg.org.uk.

We would like to hear from anyone who has experience recruiting for PAs and would be happy to share their experience.