In 2024 to pursue a career as a Physician Assistant (PA) in Alaska(AK) follow these steps: complete a two-year accredited PA program after obtaining a bachelor’s degree and relevant work experience.
Post-graduation, pass the national certification exam, and secure state licensure for practice. Maintain licensure through mandatory continuous education and renewal processes.
Listed below are the top accredited Physician Assistant Schools in, or near to, Alaska.
Top Accredited PA Schools in Alaska
Many educational institutions employ the CASPA online application system. It is imperative to verify application deadlines through the official CASPA website.
Alaska Physician Assistant License Requirements
After graduating from an accredited PA program in Alaska, aspiring Physician Assistants must sit for the Physician Assistant National Certifying Exam (PANCE), which assesses their competence in medical knowledge and skills. Certification is a prerequisite for state licensing, ensuring that PAs meet nationally recognized standards.
These exams are typically administered at designated testing centers, offering a standardized evaluation process for PA candidates across the country. Successful completion of these exams demonstrates the necessary qualifications for entry into the field of medical practice as a certified Physician Assistant.
Licensing
In Alaska PA’s must practice under the supervision of collaborating physicians. PAs can prescribe, administer, and dispense medications and controlled substances with physician approval and documented authorization – including Schedule II – V controlled substances.
The Alaska State Medical Board oversees the licensing of Physician Assistants in Alaska. You can contact the Board directly using the contact details below:
Address: Division of Occupational Licensing, 550 West 7th Avenue, Suite 1500, Anchorage, AK 99501-3567id=347#sthash.1FVXLJ3z.dpuf
Phone: (907) 465-2781
Website: https://www.commerce.alaska.gov
Physician Assistant Salary in Alaska
In 2024, there were 430 individuals employed as Physician Assistants in Alaska, earning an average salary of $144,460. This reflects an hourly wage of $69.45, which is 13.28% above the national average of $125,270. Among these professionals, the top 10% earned $172,370, while the bottom 10% earned $47,530.
In Alaska, from 2018 to 2022, the average salary for Physician Assistants increased by $22,200, representing an 18% growth. However, employment witnessed a decrease of 90 positions, reflecting a 17% decline over the same period.
Looking ahead, the Bureau for Labor Statistics (BLS) anticipates a promising 27% growth in physician assistant employment from 2022 to 2032.