Physician associate

Career path and progression

As an experienced physician associate you might be able to move into management, medical teaching or research.

You might move from general or emergency care into a specialism like paediatric care or mental health.

What it takes

Skills and knowledge

You'll need:

• knowledge of medicine
• knowledge of biology
• sensitivity and understanding
• the ability to understand people’s reactions
• active listening skills
• to be thorough and pay attention to detail
• the ability to work well with others
• the ability to accept criticism and work well under pressure
• to be able to use a computer and the main software packages competently

Restrictions and Requirements

You'll need to:

• pass enhanced background checks

Once you're qualified you have to complete 50 hours of continuous professional development each year and sit a renewal exam every 6 years.

Related subjects

Most relevant

• Biology - Physician associates need a deep understanding of human biology to examine patients, diagnose conditions, and understand how diseases affect the body. Knowledge of anatomy, physiology, and how body systems interact is essential for taking medical histories and creating treatment plans.
• Chemistry - Physician associates need to understand how drugs work in the body, including how medications are absorbed, metabolised, and excreted. Chemistry also underpins their understanding of blood tests, metabolic conditions, and the biochemical processes involved in disease.
• Psychology - Physician associates work closely with patients who may be anxious, distressed, or living with mental health conditions. Understanding human behaviour, emotional responses, and psychological wellbeing helps them communicate sensitively and support patients through difficult diagnoses or treatments.
• Mathematics - Physician associates use maths when calculating drug dosages, interpreting test results, and analysing patient data. They also need to understand statistics to evaluate medical research and make evidence-based decisions about patient care.

Also relevant

• Physics - Physician associates benefit from understanding the physics behind medical imaging techniques such as X-rays, ultrasound, and MRI scans. Knowledge of how these technologies work helps them interpret results and understand the procedures they may request for patients.
• Sociology - Physician associates see patients from all backgrounds and need to understand how social factors – such as poverty, housing, and inequality – affect health outcomes. This awareness helps them provide more effective and compassionate care tailored to each patient's circumstances.
• English Language - Physician associates write detailed patient notes, referral letters, and healthcare management plans that must be clear and accurate. They also need strong communication skills to explain diagnoses and treatment options to patients in a way that is easy to understand.
• Physical Education - Physician associates advise patients on staying healthy, including the role of exercise in preventing and managing conditions like heart disease, diabetes, and obesity. Understanding how physical activity affects the body helps them give practical wellbeing advice.