Deciding on a career path to take after college can be a daunting task. This is because there are so many things that you need to take into consideration. Just a few things to consider are salary, skills and working hours. Did you know that one of the best and fastest growing career opportunities right now is that of a physician assistant (PA)? If you enjoy helping the greater community and working in a fast paced atmosphere, then you should seriously think about becoming a physician assistant.

The starting physician assistant salary usually range from $64,000 to $77,000 depending on the particular state you work in. Don’t be too disappointed. Like most professions, the more clinical experience you acquire, you will earn more.

Physician assistants operate as an extension of the doctor but many of them do work on their own after extensive training. They are even authorized to write prescriptions for patients in certain states. Like doctors, they perform routine check ups, as well as diagnose and treat patients. If you are a people’s person and enjoy helping them, then chances are you will definitely love this career. While the title might have you believing that you will be glued to the hip of a licensed physician, that is not the case. After your introductory training is completed you will be able to work autonomously.

Another reason to become a physician assistant is for job security. This is because the medical industry is continually growing despite the economic recession. For example, more medical schools and nursing programs are developed to accommodate for students than ever before. Because of our ageing population, there will always be a need for more health care professionals regardless of the slowdown in the economy. Physician assistants fits this bill.

Job prospect is high for physician assistant, so you will most likely have a job if you choose to become one. Though some doctors offices and hospitals have more physician assistants than others. Your future is looking good in terms of job opportunities.

As we mentioned earlier, the starting pay range for a physician assistant salary is only just the beginning. You can actually make over $100,000 yearly with years of clinical experience. Maine, New York, West Virginia, North Dakota and Alaska are some of the higher paying states for physician assistants. Of the high paying states, the mean salary for an experienced physician assistant falls between $77,000 to $92,000.

Working amongst the best and brightest in the medical field would be an absolute treat for some, there is so much that you can learn and experience on a daily basis working alongside medical professionals. You will have a high sense of accomplishment in all the great work that you will do and all the many people you will help along the way.

One of the most euphoric feelings in the world is living for others. If you are very passionate about helping others then you should definitely become a physician assistant.