Physician Assistant (PA)

About

Physician assistants provide medical services as delegated by an approved supervising physician; take medical histories; perform physical exams on patients of all ages; assess, diagnose and treat medical or surgical problems as delegated by a supervising physician; perform therapeutic procedures and office surgical procedures; may assist in surgery; may provide prenatal and postnatal care and assist the physician in obstetrical care; may counsel patients concerning diets, therapy, health promotion and disease prevention; may make hospital rounds or provide hospital or nursing home medical services; may provide immediate evaluation and treatment in response to emergency medical problems; may refer a patient to specialty physicians; may order and interpret laboratory tests, x-rays, diets, physical therapy, inhalation therapy or other services when delegated by a supervising physician; may order certain medications with the prior approval and direction of a supervising physician and may prescribe medications and medical devices as delegated by a supervising physician in accordance with Iowa Administrative Code 645- 325.7; may assist a supervising physician in the office management and direction of other medical personnel in the execution of patient care.

Code Citation IC, Chapter 148C; 645 IAC 326-329

Who Applies Persons who wish to practice as a physician assistant in Iowa.

When To Apply After academic requirements are met and after successfully passing the national examination. Temporary licensure may be issued to applicants awaiting results of the national examination.

Initial Requirements Graduation from an approved educational program for physician assistants.

Duration Two years. A temporary license may be issued for one year until results of the national examination are received.

Processing Time 30 days after all required material have been submitted. Online renewal in real time.

Fee Structure Initial License: https://www.legis.iowa.gov/law/administrativeRules/rules?agency=645&chapter=5 Temporary License: https://www.legis.iowa.gov/law/administrativeRules/rules?agency=645&chapter=5 Renewal: https://www.legis.iowa.gov/law/administrativeRules/rules?agency=645&chapter=5

Renewal Requirements http://www.idph.iowa.gov/Licensure/Iowa-Board-of-Physician-Assistants

Exam National Commission on Certification of Physician Assistants examination.

Additional Information Persons who wish to practice as a physician assistant in Iowa.