Physician Associate

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Physician Associates (PAs) are healthcare professionals with a generalist medical education.

They work as part of the multidisciplinary team which includes GPs, Paramedics and Nurses.  PAs are able to assess, diagnose and manage patients and at St Lawrence Surgery are supervised by the on-call GP. 

General facts about Physician Associates:

• PAs have been working in the UK for the last 20 years in both GP and hospital settings.
• PAs have a science-related degree and a two-year masters in Physician Associate Studies.
• PAs cannot issue prescriptions or request X-rays, but they can discuss with the supervising GP who can issue/request these if appropriate.
• The professional body is the Faculty of Physician Associates.  
• Physician Associate will soon become a registered title and PAs will be regulated by the GMC by the end of 2024.

If you would like further information the PA will be happy to explain their role during your appointment, or please visit the Faculty of Physician Associates website.

Rachel Thorpe Physician Associate