Physician Associates (PAs)

Physician Associates (PAs) are medically trained, generalist healthcare professionals.

This page shows how a PA can help reduce waiting lists and treatment delays by freeing up doctors to help more complex patients. We also have information to help organisations and medical teams prepare to integrate, support and progress the PA role, enabling them to practice to their full potential. 

PAs are an addition to teams. They're not at the expense of any other healthcare professional team member. They work alongside doctors to provide medical care across a range of specialties in general practice, community, and hospital settings. PAs work with a dedicated medical supervisor but can also work autonomously with appropriate support.

Regulation of the PA role

The General Medical Council (GMC) is working to bring PA roles into regulation. Based on the government’s timetable for consultation, the GMC expects regulation to begin in the second half of 2024 at the earliest.

A day in the life of a PA

These case studies show the day-to-day life and experiences of PAs working across NHS Wales. They include details on the areas of work, as well as tips for fellow PAs or students.