Physician Assistants (PAs) are healthcare professionals who work alongside doctors to provide patient care. They are trained to perform many tasks, such as taking medical histories, conducting physical exams, and diagnosing illnesses. PAs can also prescribe medications and assist in surgeries, making them an essential part of the healthcare team. To become a PA, individuals typically complete a master's degree from an accredited program and pass a national certification exam. PAs can work in various settings, including hospitals, clinics, and private practices, and they often specialize in areas like family medicine, pediatrics, or emergency medicine.