A physician assistant (PA) is a licensed health care professional and dependent practitioner. The profession began in the 1960s and accredited programs now number 110 nationwide. PAs practice in every specialty, including dermatology, and their clinical duties vary tremendously. Research has shown enhanced productivity and increased patient satisfaction in practices using PAs. Most third-party payers cover services provided by PAs, making them ideally suited in this era of increasing managed care.

A physician assistant (PA) is a licensed health care professional and dependent practitioner. The profession began in the 1960s and accredited programs now number 110 nationwide.