How does the role of a Physician Assistant differ from that of a doctor or nurse?
Physician Assistants (PAs) play a crucial role in healthcare, bridging the gap between doctors and nurses. They assist in diagnosis, treatment, and patient management, but their scope differs from both doctors and nurses, as shown below:
Aspect | Physician Assistant (PA) | Doctor (MBBS) | Nurse |
|---|---|---|---|
Training Duration | 3-4 years | 5.5 years (MBBS) | 4 years (BSc Nursing) |
Main Role | Assists doctors in patient care, performs minor procedures | Diagnoses, prescribes treatment, performs surgeries | Provides direct patient care, administers medications |
Independence | Works under a doctor's supervision | Works independently | Works under a healthcare team |
Work Settings | Hospitals, clinics, telemedicine | Hospitals, clinics, private practice | Hospitals, home care, community health |
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