To become a Physician Assistant (PA) in Idaho, complete a two-year accredited PA program, usually requiring a bachelor’s degree and relevant work experience. Post-graduation, pass the national certification exam, and secure state licensure for practice. Mandatory continuous education and renewal processes ensure the maintenance of licensure, paving the way for a rewarding career as a certified Physician Assistant in Idaho.
Listed below are the top accredited Physician Assistant Schools in, or near to, Idaho.
Accredited PA Schools in Idaho for 2023 – 2024
Choosing an ARC-PA-accredited school in Idaho is crucial for quality education and eventual certification. Accreditation ensures the program meets rigorous standards, enhancing your preparedness for the national certification exam. In Idaho, all PA schools adhere to these standards, with one fully accredited institution, guaranteeing a reputable and recognized education.
| School | City | ARC-PA | Learn More |
|---|---|---|---|
| Idaho State University | Pocatello | Yes | Program Page |
The majority of institutions utilize the CASPA online application method, emphasizing the importance of reviewing application deadlines on the official CASPA website.
Idaho State University, Pocatello
- 921 S 8th Ave, Pocatello, ID 83209, United States
- +1 208-282-4636
Idaho Physician Assistant Certification and Licensing
After graduating from an accredited PA program in Idaho, aspiring Physician Assistants must take the Physician Assistant National Certifying Exam, typically administered at designated testing centers. Certification is a prerequisite for state licensing, ensuring PAs meet nationally recognized standards. These exams evaluate medical knowledge and skills, providing a standardized assessment. Successful completion signifies the essential qualifications for practicing as a certified Physician Assistant, contributing to the high standards of healthcare delivery in Idaho.
Licensing Requirements
The scope of practice for physician assistants varies from state to state and therefore so do licensing requirements.
PA’s in Idaho must work within the scope of a collaborative agreement with physicians. Based on this agreement PA’s can work in any setting that the physician deems appropriate to their skill level. Defined tasks are set through a medical services agreement, which will also detail the PA’s authority to prescribe medications and Schedule II – V controlled substances. PA’s in Idaho are required to obtain an additional Controlled Substance License.
The Idaho Board of Medicine – Division of Occupational Licenses governs the licensing of Physician Assistants in Idaho. You can contact the Board directly using the contact details below:
Address: PO Box 83720, Boise, ID 83720-0058
Phone: 208-334-3233
Website: https://dopl.idaho.gov/paac/
Physician Assistant Salary in Idaho
In 2024, there were 1,050 individuals employed as Physician Assistants in Idaho, earning an average salary of $120,220. This reflects an hourly wage of $57.80, which is 4.20% below the national average of $125,270. Among these professionals, the top 10% earned $146,010, while the bottom 10% earned $57,870.
In Idaho, from 2018 to 2022, the average salary for Physician Assistants increased by $11,130, reflecting a 10% growth. Concurrently, employment experienced a substantial rise of 320 positions, indicating a 44% increase over the same period. Looking forward, the Bureau for Labor Statistics (BLS) foresees a promising 27% growth in physician assistant employment from 2022 to 2032.