The physician assistant,
working with physicians and other
health professionals, performs
many clinical functions that enable the physician to devote more time to duties requiring his particular knowledge and skill.

In most settings the physician assistant obtains medical histories, performs physical examinations, orders and interprets laboratory results and other information and assesses and treats common illnesses, including writing prescriptions. Disease prevention and health promotion activities, counseling and patient education are other important services provided by the physician assistant.