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PA Statistics

Everything You Need to Know About Becoming a PA: Key Stats and Facts

If you’re considering a career as a Physician Assistant (PA), you’re in good company. With the profession growing rapidly, it’s essential to understand what the journey to becoming a PA entails and what the landscape looks like once you’re certified. From the number of practicing PAs to the educational and experiential background of PA students, this guide covers the crucial statistics that define the field. Whether you’re planning your path or just curious about the PA profession, these facts will give you a clear picture of what to expect.

  1. Number of PAs Practicing in the US

As of the end of 2022, the Physician Assistant profession boasts approximately 168,318 board-certified PAs practicing across the United States, according to the NCCPA. This number reflects the profession’s steady growth and its critical role in the healthcare system, filling essential gaps and ensuring patients receive timely care. PAs are versatile, often working in various specialties, from family medicine to surgery, making them indispensable to the healthcare team.

  1. Graduation and Age

Most PAs earn their certification between the ages of 25 and 30, similar to medical school graduates. The median age of practicing PAs is 38 years, with over 70% of them being female, highlighting the significant role women play in this profession. This demographic trend not only showcases the increasing interest in the PA profession among younger adults but also emphasizes the diversity within the field.

  1. PA School Graduates

In recent years, around 12,000 students graduate from PA programs, ready to enter the healthcare workforce. This influx of new graduates is crucial in meeting the growing demand for healthcare services across the country. PA schools are rigorous, ensuring that each graduate is well-prepared to take on the challenges of the profession.

  1. Educational Background

When it comes to educational qualifications, approximately 83% of PA students hold a bachelor’s degree before entering PA school. As expected, about half of these degrees are in biology, a foundation that provides strong preparation for the medical curriculum in PA programs. Additionally, the average GPA of students entering PA school is 3.5, reflecting the high academic standards required to be accepted into these programs. For those considering this path, a solid academic background in the sciences is a significant advantage.

  1. Experience Prior to PA School

Before even applying to PA school, many students gain experience in healthcare settings. In fact, 89% of PA students reported knowing at least one practicing PA before applying to school, highlighting the importance of networking and mentorship in this field and a deep understanding of the profession. Furthermore, 27% of PA students worked in a healthcare-related field for less than a year, while others gained experience as medical assistants (18%) or as EMTs/paramedics (17%). This hands-on experience not only strengthens an application but also provides invaluable insights into patient care and the healthcare environment.  Most programs require a significant amount of hands-on medical care experience.

  1. Acceptance Rates

The path to becoming a PA is competitive, and this is reflected in the acceptance rates. Over two-thirds of PA students were accepted by only one PA school, underscoring the competitive nature of admissions and the increasing number of applicants. For prospective students, this statistic serves as a reminder to apply to multiple programs and to ensure that every application is as strong as possible.

 

Becoming a Physician Assistant is a challenging yet rewarding journey. The statistics highlight the profession’s growth, the competitive nature of PA programs, and the importance of both education and experience in the admissions process. If you’re passionate about healthcare and ready to commit to the rigorous path ahead, the PA profession offers a fulfilling career with the opportunity to make a significant impact on patient care. Whether you’re just starting out or deep into your application process, these facts and figures provide a roadmap to help guide your way.