How to Become a Physician's Assistant for Pediatrics
- 1). Complete a physician assistant program that is accredited by the Accreditation Review Commission on Education for the Physician Assistant. The BLS states that traditional colleges and universities, academic health centers, medical schools, schools of allied health and some community colleges offer such a program. Through a physician assistant program, you can earn an associate, bachelor’s or master’s degree. Traditional programs, according to the BLS, take two years to complete if you enroll as a full-time student. Physician assistance courses include those related to human anatomy, pathology, biochemistry, clinical pharmacology, medical ethic and clinical medicine. Because you want to specialize in pediatrics, you will also need to take classes that focus on prenatal care, gynecology, family medicine and pediatrics.
- 2). Receive a certification to work as a physician’s assistant. If you plan to work within the U.S., you must pass the National Commission on Certification of Physician Assistants’ Physician Assistant National Certifying Examination after completing an accredited physician assistant program. The BLS states that you will have the “Physician Assistant-Certified” credential after passing the test.
- 3). Continue to receive training related to working as a pediatric physician assistant so you can maintain your certification. According to the BLS, in 2011, you need to complete 100 hours of relevant continuing education courses every two years.
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