Physician Assistants (Officer)
Opportunities
Physician assistants are nationally certified health professionals who provide primary medical care, including diagnosing and treating diseases, and prescribing medication. They often work under the direction of a physician. When a physician is unavailable, physician assistants serve as the authority on determining medical necessity, priority, and requirements for emergency care, stabilization, and patient evacuation.
Training Provided
Job training for physician assistants primarily consists of classroom instruction, including practice in providing patient healthcare, and on-the-job learning in various training environments. Physician assistants often have the opportunity to teach, research, and learn at various health education programs.
- Fundamental medical care procedures
- Principles of behavioral and dental science
- Healthcare administration techniques
Officers typically enter the Military after they have completed a four-year college degree; enlisted service members can transition to officer positions through a variety of pathways and earn a degree while serving. Like other officers working in healthcare, they complete a comprehensive training program covering responsibilities, orientation to military structure, healthcare and etiquette, traditions, and leadership development.
Earnings
Officers in the military can progress through ten officer pay grades during their careers. Pay grade and length of service determine an officer's pay. Most newly commissioned officers begin at pay grade O-1 ($3826/month basic pay in 2024). With certain professional qualifications, officers may enter at a higher pay grade. After two years, officers generally move up to O-2 ($5021/month basic pay in 2024). After an additional two years, the military generally promotes officers to O-3 ($6806/month basic pay in 2024) if job performance and other requirements are met. Cost-of-living increases usually occur once a year. Many officers and their families live free of charge in military housing on the base where they are assigned. Those living off base receive a housing allowance in addition to their basic pay. Officers also receive a monthly food allowance. These allowances, and associated tax savings, are substantial additions to basic pay. Other employment benefits for military officers include free health care, 30 days paid vacation each year, legal assistance, education assistance, military store privileges, and an excellent retirement program.
Services offering this occupation
Air Force
Army
Coast Guard
Navy