After graduating, many physician assistants (PAs) ask a common question: What next? Many people who train to be PAs aim to improve the medical field and ensure that everyone gets the best medical care. While this can be achieved in hospitals and clinics, there are also non-clinic options they can explore, as discussed below.Â
Public Health and Advocacy
Public health advocacy involves influencing legislators to change their public policies to make the nation safer and healthier. This field is expanding and has openings for physician asisstants. PAs can engage in policy development and ensure the public can access quality and essential healthcare services. This great career opportunity allows PAs to leverage their clinical knowledge and experience to advocate for healthcare equity.
In addition to working in public health roles, PAs can pursue federal advocacy careers. Those who choose this path should be ready to collaborate with federal and state lawmakers to represent the interests of PA professionals. In this capacity, they will be required to eliminate barriers that restrict the scope of the PA practice so those working in this field can deliver healthcare to their full potential.Â
Locum Tenens
While working in the medical field is rewarding, some professionals in this file deal with burnout and a poor work-life balance. This is due to the shortage of attendants in healthcare facilities. However, PAs can take advantage of this shortage while helping their medical colleagues by taking up locum tenens positions.
With these positions, the PA can practice medicine without dealing with the stress of this career. They can decide when they want to work and the desired location. This option offers an excellent way for the PA to explore different career options before settling on one. Besides, locum tenens also pays well.
Academics
Not all PAs get a chance to practice their skills in the field. Some choose to teach and mentor other PAs. Those who find this appealing should explore their career opportunities in academics. Those who choose this career path should know they will spend less time with patients and more in the classroom.
Before choosing this path, physician assistants should know they need to get more training, such as an advanced degree or additional certification. This might mean taking more time to learn, but when they finish the project, they will be better equipped to shape the future of others who might want to join the field.
Working for Non-Profit
Becoming a physician assistant involves a deep commitment to patient care. Those who choose this career path must be ready to make a difference in public health. One way they can do this is by working for a non-profit.
PAs who work in nonprofits should know this is a commitment. Their primary focus will be serving the communities and improving lives. They will aim to improve lives beyond the pursuit of profit. Though this career path is stressful and can lead to burnout, it is also rewarding.Â
Physician assistants have numerous career opportunities, so one can always find something they enjoy doing and a career that will shape the best version of themselves. However, to achieve this, they must research and learn about the various career opportunities to choose the best one. Note that the choice they make is personal and will impact their career hence the need to consult experts and think critically.
