A physician assistant (PA) is a medical professional. Under a doctor's supervision, and within the scope of the regulations of each state where the PA is licensed, a licensed PA may perform physical exams, diagnose and treat illnesses, assist in surgery, order and interpret lab tests, provide patient education, and prescribe drugs. Most PAs are found in primary care settings, especially family medicine, internal medicine, Ob/Gyn, and surgery. There are also options to specialize in a variety of medical specialties such as orthopedics, cardiology, dermatology, radiology, pediatrics, and emergency medicine. The PA field is rapidly growing as demand steadily increases and interest in the profession expands. Many people are attracted to the ability to provide healthcare and earn a good salary (~$71,000 starting salary) without the prolonged training of an MD. Additionally, most PAs have more flexibility in their work schedule than MDs.

There are currently 5 fully accredited PA programs in North Carolina :

• Duke
• East Carolina University
• Methodist University
• Wake Forest University
• Wingate University

Campbell University  opened a new PA program in August, 2011.  Provisional accreditation has been granted.

Elon University has announced plans to offer a PA program, beginning in January, 2013.

High Point University has announced plans to offer a PA program, beginning in 2014.