Physician Associates Network
The Physician Associate (PA) network was launched earlier this week highlighting the work of the trust’s 27 PAs.
PAs work under the supervision of a consultant but their duties include reviewing patients’ medical histories, carrying out examinations, requesting diagnostic tests and interpreting investigations.
“We’re not here to replace doctors or be seen as a cheap medical solution to plug gaps in rotas,” said Chief Physician Associate Rosalie Alpine who is among the 3,000 PAs now working in the UK.
“We’re an integral part of the teams we work in and provide continuity across specialisms including A&E, ENT and Frailty.”
A recent expansion programme will see the trust employ six new PAs every six months for the next two years.
PAs are hoping to become an officially registered profession with the General Medical Council in the next year.