The Physician Assistant (P.A.) is a mid-level health care provider who is certified by the State Board of Medicine. Physician Assistants provide traditional medical services in association with a licensed Physician. The P.A. is neither a Physician nor a Physician trainee.

Most P.A.s complete a 4 year undergraduate college degree and then complete a 2-year nationally accredited training program similar to that of medical students. During their training, P.A.s study and practice patient care in various specialties including Family Medicine, OB/GYN, Internal Medicine and Pediatrics.

The "C" stands for "Certified," a requirement for practice in Pennsylvania and other states. To become certified (and to continue certification), a P.A.-C must successfully complete the NCCPA Medical Boards every six years and attend 50 hours of continuing medical education conferences every year. The education of a Physician Assistant continues throughout his career. Physician supervisors, like Dr. Glorioso, encourage and assist the P.A. in the acquisition of additional skills, broadening the scope of the tasks that he can perform.

A Physician Assistant can diagnose and treat the majority of problems that present to a Family Practice office. His skills and duties include:

• Performing complete physical examinations
• Well child and infant check-ups
• Diagnosing and treating acute illnesses
• Diagnosing and treating chronic illnesses
• Writing prescriptions
• Laceration repairs and minor surgery
• Ordering blood tests, x-rays, and EKGs

We encourage patients to see both the Physician and the Physician Assistant. When making an appointment, you will always be able to choose who you would like to see. There may be some time periods, however, when only one of our providers will be in the office.