The role of PAs in providing mental health care.

The prevalence of psychiatric and substance use disorders in the United States is rising and of growing concern. Because such behavioral conditions are widespread, one approach is to collaborate with various medical professionals to help offset this demand. To address this issue, the frequency and types of mental health conditions encountered by physician assistants (PAs) were assessed.

PA practice analysis: Multidisciplinary tasks, knowledge, and skills.

In conducting its practice analysis, the National Commission on Certification of Physician Assistants incorporated new approaches in 2015. Twelve groups of PAs identified knowledge, tasks, and skills required for practice not only in primary care, but also in 11 practice focus areas (specialties). In addition, a list of diseases and disorders likely to be encountered was identified for each specialty.