Physician Associates are healthcare professionals who work alongside doctors and the wider multidisciplinary team to support patient care.
Role in Primary Care
PAs can make a valuable contribution to primary care teams by providing continuity, supporting chronic disease management, and delivering patient education.
However, there are important restrictions and safeguards:
- Supervision – PAs must always work under the supervision of a named GP or senior doctor. They are not independent practitioners.
- Scope – PAs should not see undifferentiated or undiagnosed patients unless following clearly defined national clinical protocols.
- Experience – Before working in primary care, PAs should have at least two years’ experience in secondary care.
- Identification – PAs must be clearly identifiable to patients and colleagues, wearing distinct uniforms and badges to avoid confusion with doctors.
Regulation and Standards
- PAs are regulated by the GMC, ensuring accountability, fitness to practise, and patient safety.
- National standards define supervision, credentialling, and ongoing professional development.
- A formal career framework is being developed, including Advanced PA roles with higher levels of responsibility and Agenda for Change banding.
Potential Scope of Practice (with training/credentialling)
As the role develops under GMC oversight, some responsibilities may be expanded in future, including:
- Prescribing rights (subject to training and national approval).
- Ordering of certain diagnostic tests, such as non-ionising radiation investigations.
- These changes will only apply where formal credentialling has been completed.
Contribution to Primary Care Networks
Within the ARRS scheme, Physician Assistants can:
- Support routine follow-up and continuity of care for patients with long-term conditions.
- Provide health promotion and patient education.
- Reduce GP workload through structured, supervised clinical support.
- Strengthen team resilience and improve access to care.
Key Points for Practices
- PAs must always work under direct supervision of a GP.
- Practices should ensure governance, supervision time, and appropriate induction are in place.
- Patients should be informed about the role, including what PAs can and cannot do.
- ARRS funding can support the recruitment of PAs where these conditions are met.