A physician’s assistant is a medical professional who works closely with a licensed physician. A physician assistant Gaithersburg, MD, performs many of the same duties as a doctor, including diagnosing and treating patients, prescribing medications and ordering and interpreting diagnostic tests.
Physician’s assistants must complete an accredited educational program and pass a certification exam. They may work in various settings, including hospitals, clinics and private practices.
The next time you visit your family doctor, expect the below-listed roles from a physician assistant:
Ask you questions about your health history
Your health history provides critical information about your current health and any conditions or diseases you’ve had in the past. The physician assistant will ask you questions about your family’s health history and personal health history.
This information helps the physician assistant identify potential risk factors for certain diseases or conditions.
Perform a physical examination
During a physical examination, your physician assistant at Doctors First will check your vital signs, such as blood pressure, heart rate, and temperature. The physician assistant will also examine your body to look for signs of illness or injury.
Order and interpret diagnostic tests
If the physician assistant suspects you have a certain condition or disease, they may order a diagnostic test to help confirm the diagnosis. The physician assistant will also interpret the results of any diagnostic tests so that they can provide you with accurate information about your health.
Prescribe medications
The physician assistant may prescribe medications to treat certain conditions or diseases. They will also advise you on the best way to take these medications and monitor your progress to ensure they are effective.
Provide counseling and education
The physician assistant may provide you with counseling and education on various health topics. For example, they may provide advice on maintaining a healthy lifestyle, quitting smoking, or managing a chronic condition.
Refer you to other medical specialists
If the physician assistant suspects you have a condition that requires specialist care, they may refer you to a specialist. For example, if you have a heart condition, the physician assistant may refer you to a cardiologist.
Record patient information
The physician assistant will keep detailed records of your medical history and any treatment or medications you’ve received. This information helps the physician assistant provide you with the best possible care.
Provide customer service
The physician assistant is responsible for providing excellent customer service to patients and their families. It includes answering questions, addressing concerns, and ensuring that patients receive their care.
Perform administrative duties
The physician assistant may also be responsible for performing administrative duties, such as scheduling appointments, ordering supplies, and billing insurance companies.
Participate in research
Physician’s assistants may also participate in research studies to help improve healthcare quality. For example, a physician assistant may participate in a study to test a new medication or treatment.
Physician assistants play a vital role in the healthcare system. If you need medical care, a physician assistant is available at Doctors First to provide the care you need.
