Locations:
SearchThe Short Answer from one of our experts
A: Physician assistants (PAs) team up with your doctor and other healthcare providers to care for you. They earn a master’s degree after completing an intense medical curriculum from an accredited physician assistant program (often housed in a medical school).
Advertisement
Cleveland Clinic is a non-profit academic medical center. Advertising on our site helps support our mission. We do not endorse non-Cleveland Clinic products or services. Policy
Physician assistants graduate as medical generalists. They may practice in a primary care setting or a specialty setting, teaming up with a physician or a surgeon. They can assess, diagnose, treat, prescribe medication, and educate you about health conditions and about wellness.
As our population ages, physicians will rely more and more on physician assistants and other advanced care practitioners, such as nurse practitioners, to improve access to quality medical care.
— Cleveland Clinic Education Institute Executive Dean James Young, MD
Advertisement
Learn more about our editorial process.
Advertisement
The differences are few, but ophthalmologists can perform eye surgeries and more complex procedures
The best way to figure out which kind you need is to first speak with your primary care provider
They practice medicine similarly, but DOs have a focus on the mind, body, spirit connection
What you need to know to enjoy safe, good results from plastic surgery
If the area is bleeding a lot or the wound is near your face or genitals, you likely need a specialist’s care
Lots of things can activate the herpes simplex virus, from the common cold and cold weather to cracked skin and cosmetic procedures
The emergency room is for serious medical issues; urgent care can help when you can’t get a quick appointment with your child’s doctor
Honey can help make a sore throat more bearable by tamping down inflammation and coating your throat
The best parenting style balances enforcing rules and showing plenty of love
Tips include cutting back on sugar, focusing on exercise and managing stress
It can be harder to let go when you’ve invested time, energy and emotions — but it might be the healthier choice long term
