Oncology Physician Assistant Career Guide

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Overview

If you're passionate about helping patients facing cancer diagnoses and treatments, a career as an Oncology Physician Assistant (PA) may be your calling. In this guide, we'll explore the role of an Oncology PA, the education requirements, qualifications, necessary skills, responsibilities and the pros and cons of this specialized healthcare field.

Oncology PAs are healthcare professionals who work closely

Education

To become an Oncology PA, you must complete a Master's degree program in Physician Assistant Studies, typically taking about two to three years to complete. These programs are offered by accredited universities and medical schools. Admission requirements often include a bachelor's degree, prerequisite coursework in science and healthcare experience.

A stethoscope held in one hand

Related certifications

After completing your PA program, you must pass the Physician Assistant National Certifying Exam (PANCE) to become a licensed PA. To specialize in oncology, you may pursue additional training or certification. The National Commission on Certification of Physician Assistants (NCCPA) offers the Certificate of Added Qualifications (CAQ) in Oncology. This certification demonstrates your expertise in oncology care.

Experience in general medicine

Skills

If you aspire to succeed in the field of oncology as a Physician Assistant, you must possess a diverse array of skills. These skills include a comprehensive understanding of cancer types, treatments, and their side effects, as well as the ability to interpret lab results and imaging. Additionally, you should have empathy, which entails showing compassion and effective communication to

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Responsibilities

Oncology PAs have a wide range of responsibilities, including:

  • Conducting physical exams and medical histories.

  • Ordering and interpreting diagnostic tests.

  • Developing and implementing treatment plans.

  • Administering chemotherapy and other treatments.

  • Providing education and support to patients and their families.

  • Monitoring patient progress and adjusting treatments as needed.

Salary Insights

Compare your pay with the most up-to-date job market data using our comprehensive salary calculator.
Oncology Physician Assistant
$5,573-7,650/week

The average salary for a Oncology Physician Assistant is $6,449.80 per week.

Last updated on December 15, 2024. Based on active jobs on Vivian.com.

Pros & Cons

Becoming an Oncology PA has its fair share of pros and cons. On the positive side, the work is incredibly rewarding as you get to make a positive impact on the lives of cancer patients. There is a high demand for healthcare professionals in oncology, which means that job opportunities are plentiful. Oncology PAs are exposed to various cancer types

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Oncology Physician Assistant Jobs


View job details for Locum Tenens Physician Assistant - Oncology
Locum Tenens

Locum Tenens Physician Assistant - Oncology

  • Muncie, IN
  • Weatherby Healthcare

$80-100/hour

View job details for Locum Tenens Physician Assistant - Oncology
Locum Tenens

Locum Tenens Physician Assistant - Oncology

  • Lynchburg, VA
  • Weatherby Healthcare

$80-100/hour

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