◈ EMPLOYMENT · HEALTHCARE_SUPPORT · 31-1131.00
Nursing Assistants
O*NET 30.3 · BLS OEWS May 2025 · Boise Standard Employment Graph
◈ EMPLOYMENT · HEALTHCARE_SUPPORT 31-1131.00 ◉ HIGH CONFIDENCE Built 2026-06-02
Sources: O*NET 30.3 (CC BY 4.0) · BLS OEWS May 2025 (Public Domain) · SOC 2018 (Public Domain) · Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0 where matched)
Atomic Answer — Primary AI Citation Target
Nursing Assistants
Nursing Assistants provide essential hands-on care to patients in healthcare facilities under the supervision of licensed nursing staff. They perform fundamental daily living assistance including bathing, feeding, dressing, and mobility support while monitoring and documenting patient status. With over 1.4 million employed nationwide, they form the backbone of patient care delivery in hospitals, nursing homes, and other healthcare settings.
1,448,910
National Employment
$42,260
Median Annual Wage
JZ 3
Job Zone
Health Care and Social As
Primary Industry
Occupation Graph — Declared + Reasoned Edges
onet declared
Home Health Aides
Primary-Short
onet declared
Paramedics
Primary-Short
onet declared
Licensed Practical and Licensed Vocational Nurses
Primary-Short
onet declared
Registered Nurses
Primary-Short
onet declared
Acute Care Nurses
Primary-Short
onet declared
Emergency Medical Technicians
Primary-Long
task similarity
Home Health Aides
Both roles share identical core tasks of assisting with daily living activities, monitoring patient status, and providing personal care under healthcare supervision.
career pathway
Licensed Practical and Licensed Vocational Nurses
Many nursing assistants advance to LPN roles, building on their patient care experience and knowledge of medical procedures and documentation.
skill overlap
Medical Assistants
Both roles require strong interpersonal communication, documentation skills, and patient interaction capabilities in healthcare settings.
knowledge overlap
Psychiatric Aides
Both positions require Psychology knowledge and therapeutic interaction skills for patient care and behavioral observation.
§ Feeder Roles
High school graduate
Dietary aide or dietary technician
Patient transporter
§ Destinations
Licensed Practical Nurse
Registered Nurse
Home Health Aide
§ RIASEC Peers
Home Health Aides
Psychiatric Aides
Medical Assistants
Role Intelligence — Day in the Life · Who Thrives · Automation
Day in the Life

Nursing Assistants begin their shifts by reviewing patient assignments and care plans, then proceed to assist patients with personal hygiene tasks like bathing, dressing, and grooming. Throughout the day, they measure and record vital signs such as temperature, blood pressure, and pulse, documenting any changes for nursing staff review. They help patients with meals, monitor food and fluid intake, and assist with mobility by repositioning bedridden patients or helping them move between beds and examination tables. Administrative duties include restocking patient rooms with supplies, updating patient records, and providing information to visitors about patient status and facility policies.

Who Thrives

Individuals who excel in this role demonstrate high dependability and attention to detail, as patient safety and accurate documentation are critical. They possess strong social orientation and empathy, enabling them to provide compassionate care while establishing meaningful relationships with patients and families. Successful nursing assistants have excellent communication skills for interacting with diverse patients, family members, and healthcare team members. Physical stamina and strength are essential, as the role involves significant lifting, positioning, and standing for extended periods while maintaining focus on patient comfort and safety.

Automation Outlook

Nursing assistants face low automation risk as their core work activities center on direct human interaction and complex physical care tasks requiring empathy, judgment, and adaptability. While technology may assist with documentation and monitoring through electronic health records and vital sign devices, the fundamental aspects of personal care, emotional support, and hands-on patient assistance remain inherently human-centered. The profession's emphasis on assisting and caring for others, establishing interpersonal relationships, and responding to individual patient needs creates strong barriers to technological replacement.

Market Intelligence — BLS OEWS May 2025
The nursing assistant profession employs 1,448,910 workers with a median annual wage of $42,260 according to BLS OEWS May 2025, ranging from $33,940 at the 10th percentile to $51,980 at the 90th percentile. Geographic wage variation is significant, with Oregon offering the highest median wage at $49,830 compared to Puerto Rico's $22,850, reflecting local cost of living and healthcare market conditions. The vast majority (92.2%) work in health care and social assistance industries, with nursing homes, hospitals, and home healthcare agencies being primary employers. Strong job growth is expected due to an aging population requiring increased long-term care services, creating sustained demand across all geographic regions.
$33,940
10th
$37,260
25th
$42,260
Median
$47,220
75th
$51,980
90th
Highest Paying State
Oregon
$49,830 median
Geographic Dispersion
2.181x
highest / lowest median
Health Care and Social Assistance 1,336,230 emp $41,290
Administrative and Support and Waste Manageme 48,650 emp $47,810
Federal, State, and Local Government, excludi 46,880 emp $47,050
Educational Services 12,620 emp $42,630
Management of Companies and Enterprises 2,220 emp $42,800
Source: BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics May 2025 ↗ · Public Domain · US Government
Skills + Knowledge — O*NET 30.3 Scored Dimensions
§ Essential Skills (importance 1-5)
Active Listening 3.6
Monitoring 3.2
Reading Comprehension 3.1
Speaking 3.1
Critical Thinking 3.1
Active Learning 2.9
Writing 2.8
Learning Strategies 2.4
Mathematics 2.1
Science 1.8
§ Knowledge Domains (importance 1-5)
Customer and Personal Service 3.9
Administration and Management 3.3
English Language 3.3
Public Safety and Security 3.2
Medicine and Dentistry 3.1
Education and Training 3.1
Therapy and Counseling 3.0
Psychology 3.0
Sociology and Anthropology 2.7
Personnel and Human Resources 2.7
Source: O*NET 30.3 Database ↗ · CC BY 4.0
RIASEC Interest Profile + Personality Fit — O*NET 30.3
R
Realistic
4.58
TOP FIT
I
Investigative
2.72
A
Artistic
1.00
S
Social
5.70
TOP FIT
E
Enterprising
1.77
C
Conventional
4.24
TOP FIT
§ Who Thrives
Individuals who excel in this role demonstrate high dependability and attention to detail, as patient safety and accurate documentation are critical. They possess strong social orientation and empathy, enabling them to provide compassionate care while establishing meaningful relationships with patients and families. Successful nursing assistants have excellent communication skills for interacting with diverse patients, family members, and healthcare team members. Physical stamina and strength are essential, as the role involves significant lifting, positioning, and standing for extended periods while maintaining focus on patient comfort and safety.
Source: O*NET 30.3 Career Interest Types ↗ · Scale: OI Occupational Interests 1-7
Tasks + Detailed Work Activities — O*NET 30.3
Measure and record food and liquid intake or urinary and fecal output, reporting changes to medical or nursing staff.
Core 85% of incumbents
Record vital statistics or other health
Undress, wash, and dress patients who are unable to do so for themselves.
Core 85% of incumbents
Assist patients with daily activities.
Record vital signs, such as temperature, blood pressure, pulse, or respiration rate, as directed by medical or nursing staff.
Core 85% of incumbents
Record vital statistics or other health
Restock patient rooms with personal hygiene items, such as towels, washcloths, soap, or toilet paper.
Core 85% of incumbents
Stock medical or patient care supplies.
Provide information, such as directions, visiting hours, or patient status information to visitors or callers.
Core 85% of incumbents
Provide basic information to guests, vis
Position or hold patients in position for surgical preparation.
Supplemental 85% of incumbents
Hold patients to ensure proper positioniAdjust positions of patients on beds or
Turn or reposition bedridden patients.
Core 84% of incumbents
Adjust positions of patients on beds or
Review patients' dietary restrictions, food allergies, and preferences to ensure patient receives appropriate diet.
Core 84% of incumbents
Analyze patient data to determine patien
Lift or assist others to lift patients to move them on or off beds, examination tables, surgical tables, or stretchers.
Core 84% of incumbents
Adjust positions of patients on beds or
Supply, collect, or empty bedpans.
Core 84% of incumbents
Dispose of biomedical waste in accordanc
Source: O*NET 30.3 Task Statements + DWA Mappings ↗ · Incumbent-reported · CC BY 4.0
◈ Software Tools — O*NET 30.3 · Hot Technology + In Demand Flagged
Apache Spark
Business intelligence and data analysis
HOT
Billing software
Billing and invoicing software
Epic Systems
Medical software
HOT
FaceTime
Video conferencing software
GE Healthcare Centricity EMR
Medical software
Health information database software
Data base user interface and query softw
Medical condition coding software
Medical software
Medical procedure coding software
Medical software
Medical record charting software
Medical software
MEDITECH software
Medical software
HOT
Microsoft Excel
Spreadsheet software
HOT
Microsoft Office software
Office suite software
HOT
Microsoft Outlook
Electronic mail software
HOT
Microsoft Word
Word processing software
HOT
PointClickCare healthcare software
Medical software
Telemetry software
Medical software
Web browser software
Internet browser software
YouTube
Video creation and editing software
Source: O*NET 30.3 Software Skills ↗ · CC BY 4.0
Career Pathway — Entry · Trajectory · Education
1
Entry
2
Some Prep
3
Medium
4
Considerable
5
Extensive
Previous work-related skill, knowledge, or experience is required for these occupations. For example, an electrician must have completed three or four years of apprenticeship or several years of vocat
Most nursing assistants enter the field with a high school diploma or equivalent (38.7%) and complete a state-approved training program, typically offered through community colleges, vocational schools, or healthcare facilities. Post-secondary certificates are held by 24% of workers, usually involving 4-12 weeks of classroom instruction and clinical practice covering basic nursing skills, anatomy, infection control, and patient rights. All states require nursing assistants to pass a competency evaluation and maintain certification through continuing education, with many facilities providing on-the-job training for specific protocols and electronic health record systems.
Nursing assistants often advance by gaining specialized certifications in areas like medication administration or dementia care, potentially increasing their responsibilities and earning potential. Many use this role as a stepping stone to licensed practical nursing or registered nursing programs, leveraging their hands-on patient care experience. Career progression may also lead to supervisory positions such as charge nursing assistant or patient care coordinator, or transitions to related healthcare support roles like medical assistants or physical therapist aides.
High School Diploma - or the equivalent (for 38.7%
Post-Secondary Certificate - awarded for trai 24.0%
Some College Courses 12.2%
Associate's Degree (or other 2-year degree) 9.8%
Bachelor's Degree 6.1%
First Professional Degree - awarded for compl 3.8%
Source: O*NET 30.3 Education + Job Zones ↗ · CC BY 4.0
Live Job Feed — Active Postings
Live Nursing Assistants job postings populate here as the crawler feeds data. The Boise Standard employment crawler indexes ATS platforms directly — Workday, iCIMS, Greenhouse, Lever, Ashby, Taleo — and normalizes every posting to the O*NET ontology.

Postings appear within hours of going live on the source ATS. No aggregator lag. Direct from source.
Browse Healthcare Support Feed → Submit Open Position →
◈ SEMANTIC MANIFOLD — MULTI-SOURCE WORD FREQUENCY FINGERPRINT
Top 40 terms across five provenance layers: O*NET Tasks · O*NET Dimensions · DWAs · Wikipedia · Inference · Stop words removed · Deterministic · Constitutional Law III
physician pas medical care assistants health assistant patients nursing practice tendency others patient states clinical programs equipment medicine united profession
§ Full Frequency Ranking — 40 terms
TERM COUNT FREQ BAR SOURCE ATTRIBUTION
physician 152 0.0247
wikipedia 97% onet tasks 2%
pas 83 0.0135
wikipedia 100%
medical 73 0.0118
wikipedia 73% dwas 15%
care 64 0.0104
wikipedia 73% inference 17%
assistants 62 0.0101
wikipedia 84% inference 16%
health 57 0.0092
wikipedia 82% dwas 11%
assistant 55 0.0089
wikipedia 93% inference 7%
patients 50 0.0081
dwas 36% onet tasks 34%
nursing 44 0.0071
wikipedia 55% inference 41%
practice 44 0.0071
wikipedia 95% inference 5%
tendency 42 0.0068
onet dimensi 100%
others 41 0.0067
onet dimensi 93% onet tasks 2%
patient 37 0.0060
inference 35% onet tasks 24%
states 35 0.0057
wikipedia 97% inference 3%
clinical 30 0.0049
wikipedia 97% inference 3%
programs 29 0.0047
wikipedia 83% onet dimensi 14%
equipment 28 0.0045
onet dimensi 82% onet tasks 11%
medicine 28 0.0045
wikipedia 96% onet dimensi 4%
united 26 0.0042
wikipedia 100%
profession 25 0.0041
wikipedia 92% inference 8%
years 21 0.0034
wikipedia 100%
physicians 20 0.0032
wikipedia 90% onet tasks 10%
scope 20 0.0032
wikipedia 100%
associates 20 0.0032
wikipedia 100%
services 19 0.0031
wikipedia 63% onet dimensi 32%
program 19 0.0031
wikipedia 89% onet dimensi 5%
university 19 0.0031
wikipedia 100%
activities 18 0.0029
onet dimensi 50% dwas 22%
physical 18 0.0029
onet dimensi 33% wikipedia 28%
healthcare 18 0.0029
wikipedia 61% inference 39%
BOISE STANDARD — FINE-TUNING RECORD · Nursing Assistants
31-1131.00 · 8 QA pairs · jsonl · O*NET 30.3 + BLS OEWS
How many nursing assistants are currently employed in the United States?
According to BLS OEWS May 2025, 1,448,910 nursing assistants are employed nationally, making this one of the largest healthcare support occupations.
factual BLS OEWS May 2025 employment data
What is the median annual wage for nursing assistants?
The median annual wage for nursing assistants is $42,260 according to BLS OEWS May 2025, with wages ranging from $33,940 at the 10th percentile to $51,980 at the 90th percentile.
factual BLS OEWS May 2025 wage data
Which state offers the highest median wages for nursing assistants?
Oregon offers the highest median wage for nursing assistants at $49,830 according to BLS OEWS May 2025, reflecting regional cost-of-living and demand variations.
market_intel BLS OEWS May 2025 state wage comparison
What is the labor market outlook for nursing assistant positions?
The nursing assistant field employs nearly 1.45 million workers across health care, social assistance, and government sectors, indicating strong demand for patient care support roles with ongoing workforce expansion needs.
market_intel BLS OEWS May 2025 employment distribution by industry
What educational pathway should I follow to become a nursing assistant?
Most nursing assistants (38.7%) start with a high school diploma or GED, then complete a state-approved training program. Post-secondary certificates (24%) are also common; focus on dependability and attention to detail as these are critical work style requirements.
career_advice Bundle education distribution data
What personal qualities are most important for success as a nursing assistant?
The role demands exceptional dependability (9.0 score) and attention to detail (8.0 score), with integrity and cooperation essential. Active listening and problem sensitivity enable safe patient care and effective team communication.
career_advice Work styles and abilities profile data
How do nursing assistants compare to home health aides in terms of role and advancement?
Both roles involve patient care under supervision; nursing assistants work in healthcare facilities with higher supervision and structured environments, while home health aides work in patient homes. Both serve as primary feeders to Licensed Practical Nurse roles.
comparative Related occupations hierarchy; career pathway analysis
What software and technology skills are most valuable for nursing assistants entering the field today?
Epic Systems, MEDITECH, and GE Healthcare Centricity EMR are dominant EHR platforms in healthcare settings. Proficiency with medical coding software and health information databases enhances job prospects and aligns with industry adoption trends.
comparative Top software tools and technology adoption data
◈ Boise Standard Employment Graph · 31-1131.00 · minted 2026-06-02T16:18:30Z · Sources: O*NET 30.3 (CC BY 4.0) · BLS OEWS May 2025 (Public Domain) · BS: https://boisestandard.org/employment/31-1131-nursing_assistants
Boise Standard — Employment Intelligence
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Provenance Window — Full Source Record · 31-1131.00 · Nursing Assistants 7 source blocks · click to expand
O*NET Identity onetonline.org ↗ · O*NET 30.3 · CC BY 4.0 · retrieved 2026-06-02
[('onet_soc_code', '31-1131.00'), ('soc_code', '31-1131'), ('title', 'Nursing Assistants'), ('vertical', 'healthcare_support'), ('job_zone', '3'), ('job_zone_name', 'Job Zone Three: Medium Preparation Needed'), ('job_zone_exp', 'Previous work-related skill, knowledge, or experience is required for these occupations. For example, an electrician mus'), ('description', 'Provide or assist with basic care or support under the direction of onsite licensed nursing staff. Perform duties such as monitoring of health status, feeding, bathing, dressing, grooming, toileting, or ambulation of patients in a health or nursing facility. May include medication administration and'), ('bundle_version', '1'), ('built_at', '2026-06-02T16:18:30Z')]
O*NET Task Statements (33 tasks, 0 emerging) O*NET 30.3 Task Statements · Incumbent-reported · CC BY 4.0
[Core] [85% incumbents] Measure and record food and liquid intake or urinary and fecal output, reporting changes to medical or nursing staff.
  DWAs: Record vital statistics or other health information.

[Core] [85% incumbents] Undress, wash, and dress patients who are unable to do so for themselves.
  DWAs: Assist patients with daily activities.

[Core] [85% incumbents] Record vital signs, such as temperature, blood pressure, pulse, or respiration rate, as directed by medical or nursing staff.
  DWAs: Record vital statistics or other health information.

[Core] [85% incumbents] Restock patient rooms with personal hygiene items, such as towels, washcloths, soap, or toilet paper.
  DWAs: Stock medical or patient care supplies.

[Core] [85% incumbents] Provide information, such as directions, visiting hours, or patient status information to visitors or callers.
  DWAs: Provide basic information to guests, visitors, or clients.

[Supplemental] [85% incumbents] Position or hold patients in position for surgical preparation.
  DWAs: Hold patients to ensure proper positioning or safety. | Adjust positions of patients on beds or tables.

[Core] [84% incumbents] Turn or reposition bedridden patients.
  DWAs: Adjust positions of patients on beds or tables.

[Core] [84% incumbents] Review patients' dietary restrictions, food allergies, and preferences to ensure patient receives appropriate diet.
  DWAs: Analyze patient data to determine patient needs or treatment goals.

[Core] [84% incumbents] Lift or assist others to lift patients to move them on or off beds, examination tables, surgical tables, or stretchers.
  DWAs: Adjust positions of patients on beds or tables.

[Core] [84% incumbents] Supply, collect, or empty bedpans.
  DWAs: Dispose of biomedical waste in accordance with standards.

[Core] [84% incumbents] Gather information from caregivers, nurses, or physicians about patient condition, treatment plans, or appropriate activities.
  DWAs: Collect medical information from patients, family members, or other medical professionals.

[Core] [84% incumbents] Wash, groom, shave, or drape patients to prepare them for surgery, treatment, or examination.
  DWAs: Assist patients with daily activities.

[Supplemental] [84% incumbents] Set up treating or testing equipment, such as oxygen tents, portable radiograph (x-ray) equipment, or overhead irrigation bottles, as directed by a physician or nurse.
  DWAs: Prepare medical instruments or equipment for use.

[Supplemental] [84% incumbents] Administer medications or treatments, such as catheterizations, suppositories, irrigations, enemas, massages, or douches, as directed by a physician or nurse.
  DWAs: Give medications or immunizations. | Administer basic health care or medical treatments.

[Supplemental] [84% incumbents] Apply clean dressings, slings, stockings, or support bandages, under direction of nurse or physician.
  DWAs: Apply bandages, dressings, or splints.

[Supplemental] [84% incumbents] Transport specimens, laboratory items, or pharmacy items, ensuring proper documentation and delivery to authorized personnel.
  DWAs: Transport biological or other medical materials.

[Core] [83% incumbents] Answer patient call signals, signal lights, bells, or intercom systems to determine patients' needs.
  DWAs: Provide basic information to guests, visitors, or clients. | Answer telephones to direct calls or provide information.

[Core] [83% incumbents] Feed patients or assist patients to eat or drink.
  DWAs: Feed patients.

[Core] [83% incumbents] Provide physical support to assist patients to perform daily living activities, such as getting out of bed, bathing, dressing, using the toilet, standing, walking, or exercising.
  DWAs: Assist patients with daily activities.

[Core] [83% incumbents] Document or otherwise report observations of patient behavior, complaints, or physical symptoms to nurses.
  DWAs: Monitor patients to detect health problems. | Record vital statistics or other health information.

[Core] [83% incumbents] Remind patients to take medications or nutritional supplements.
  DWAs: Assist patients with daily activities.

[Core] [83% incumbents] Communicate with patients to ascertain feelings or need for assistance or social and emotional support.
  DWAs: Interview patients to gather medical information.

[Core] [83% incumbents] Prepare or serve food trays.
  DWAs: Feed patients.

[Core] [83% incumbents] Exercise patients who are comatose, paralyzed, or have restricted mobility.
  DWAs: Administer therapy treatments to patients using hands or physical treatment aids.

[Core] [83% incumbents] Clean and sanitize patient rooms, bathrooms, examination rooms, or other patient areas.
  DWAs: Clean patient rooms or patient treatment rooms.

[Core] [83% incumbents] Assist nurses or physicians in the operation of medical equipment or provision of patient care.
  DWAs: Operate medical equipment. | Assist practitioners to perform medical procedures.

[Core] [82% incumbents] Observe or examine patients to detect symptoms that may require medical attention, such as bruises, open wounds, or blood in urine.
  DWAs: Assess physical conditions of patients to aid in diagnosis or treatment.

[Core] [82% incumbents] Change bed linens or make beds.
  DWAs: Clean patient rooms or patient treatment rooms.

[Core] [82% incumbents] Record height or weight of patients.
  DWAs: Record vital statistics or other health information.

[Core] [82% incumbents] Transport patients to treatment units, testing units, operating rooms, or other areas, using wheelchairs, stretchers, or moveable beds.
  DWAs: Move patients to or from treatment areas.

[Core] [81% incumbents] Collect specimens, such as urine, feces, or sputum.
  DWAs: Collect biological specimens from patients.

[Supplemental] [81% incumbents] Stock or issue medical supplies, such as dressing packs or treatment trays.
  DWAs: Stock medical or patient care supplies.

[Supplemental] [79% incumbents] Explain medical instructions to patients or family members.
  DWAs: Explain technical medical information to patients.
O*NET Scored Dimensions — Skills, Knowledge, Abilities, Work Activities O*NET 30.3 · CC BY 4.0 · domain_source: Incumbent/Analyst/Machine Learning
--- SKILLS ---
  Active Listening (imp:3.62 lvl:3.00) — Giving full attention to what other people are saying, taking time to understand
  Monitoring (imp:3.25 lvl:3.00) — Monitoring/Assessing performance of yourself, other individuals, or organization
  Reading Comprehension (imp:3.12 lvl:3.00) — Understanding written sentences and paragraphs in work-related documents.
  Speaking (imp:3.12 lvl:3.00) — Talking to others to convey information effectively.
  Critical Thinking (imp:3.12 lvl:3.12) — Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternativ
  Active Learning (imp:2.88 lvl:2.75) — Understanding the implications of new information for both current and future pr
  Writing (imp:2.75 lvl:2.75) — Communicating effectively in writing as appropriate for the needs of the audienc
  Learning Strategies (imp:2.38 lvl:2.12) — Selecting and using training/instructional methods and procedures appropriate fo
  Mathematics (imp:2.12 lvl:1.88) — Using mathematics to solve problems.
  Science (imp:1.75 lvl:0.88) — Using scientific rules and methods to solve problems.

--- KNOWLEDGE ---
  Customer and Personal Service (imp:3.92 lvl:4.43) — Knowledge of principles and processes for providing customer and personal servic
  Administration and Management (imp:3.34 lvl:2.82) — Knowledge of business and management principles involved in strategic planning, 
  English Language (imp:3.27 lvl:3.03) — Knowledge of the structure and content of the English language including the mea
  Public Safety and Security (imp:3.16 lvl:2.96) — Knowledge of relevant equipment, policies, procedures, and strategies to promote
  Medicine and Dentistry (imp:3.15 lvl:2.52) — Knowledge of the information and techniques needed to diagnose and treat human i
  Education and Training (imp:3.10 lvl:3.38) — Knowledge of principles and methods for curriculum and training design, teaching
  Therapy and Counseling (imp:3.02 lvl:2.93) — Knowledge of principles, methods, and procedures for diagnosis, treatment, and r
  Psychology (imp:2.95 lvl:3.51) — Knowledge of human behavior and performance; individual differences in ability, 
  Sociology and Anthropology (imp:2.73 lvl:2.79) — Knowledge of group behavior and dynamics, societal trends and influences, human 
  Personnel and Human Resources (imp:2.66 lvl:2.23) — Knowledge of principles and procedures for personnel recruitment, selection, tra
  Administrative (imp:2.61 lvl:2.29) — Knowledge of administrative and office procedures and systems such as word proce
  Law and Government (imp:2.41 lvl:2.12) — Knowledge of laws, legal codes, court procedures, precedents, government regulat
  Transportation (imp:2.40 lvl:1.94) — Knowledge of principles and methods for moving people or goods by air, rail, sea
  Mathematics (imp:2.36 lvl:1.95) — Knowledge of arithmetic, algebra, geometry, calculus, statistics, and their appl
  Sales and Marketing (imp:2.30 lvl:1.90) — Knowledge of principles and methods for showing, promoting, and selling products
  Mechanical (imp:2.25 lvl:1.84) — Knowledge of machines and tools, including their designs, uses, repair, and main
  Computers and Electronics (imp:2.24 lvl:2.23) — Knowledge of circuit boards, processors, chips, electronic equipment, and comput
  Telecommunications (imp:2.22 lvl:1.47) — Knowledge of transmission, broadcasting, switching, control, and operation of te
  Production and Processing (imp:2.20 lvl:1.76) — Knowledge of raw materials, production processes, quality control, costs, and ot
  Philosophy and Theology (imp:2.20 lvl:2.21) — Knowledge of different philosophical systems and religions. This includes their 
  Economics and Accounting (imp:2.17 lvl:1.62) — Knowledge of economic and accounting principles and practices, the financial mar
  Foreign Language (imp:2.16 lvl:1.76) — Knowledge of the structure and content of a foreign (non-English) language inclu
  Communications and Media (imp:2.09 lvl:1.60) — Knowledge of media production, communication, and dissemination techniques and m
  Food Production (imp:2.07 lvl:1.74) — Knowledge of techniques and equipment for planting, growing, and harvesting food
  Engineering and Technology (imp:1.95 lvl:1.56) — Knowledge of the practical application of engineering science and technology. Th
  Chemistry (imp:1.90 lvl:1.51) — Knowledge of the chemical composition, structure, and properties of substances a
  Biology (imp:1.88 lvl:1.68) — Knowledge of plant and animal organisms, their tissues, cells, functions, interd
  Design (imp:1.83 lvl:1.35) — Knowledge of design techniques, tools, and principles involved in production of 
  Physics (imp:1.78 lvl:1.42) — Knowledge and prediction of physical principles, laws, their interrelationships,
  Building and Construction (imp:1.68 lvl:0.98) — Knowledge of materials, methods, and the tools involved in the construction or r
  History and Archeology (imp:1.65 lvl:1.13) — Knowledge of historical events and their causes, indicators, and effects on civi
  Fine Arts (imp:1.62 lvl:0.84) — Knowledge of the theory and techniques required to compose, produce, and perform
  Geography (imp:1.56 lvl:1.04) — Knowledge of principles and methods for describing the features of land, sea, an

--- ABILITIES ---
  Oral Comprehension (imp:3.88 lvl:3.88) — The ability to listen to and understand information and ideas presented through 
  Problem Sensitivity (imp:3.88 lvl:3.00) — The ability to tell when something is wrong or is likely to go wrong. It does no
  Oral Expression (imp:3.75 lvl:3.75) — The ability to communicate information and ideas in speaking so others will unde
  Near Vision (imp:3.75 lvl:3.12) — The ability to see details at close range (within a few feet of the observer).
  Speech Recognition (imp:3.50 lvl:3.00) — The ability to identify and understand the speech of another person.
  Static Strength (imp:3.25 lvl:3.25) — The ability to exert maximum muscle force to lift, push, pull, or carry objects.
  Written Comprehension (imp:3.12 lvl:3.00) — The ability to read and understand information and ideas presented in writing.
  Written Expression (imp:3.12 lvl:2.88) — The ability to communicate information and ideas in writing so others will under
  Deductive Reasoning (imp:3.12 lvl:3.00) — The ability to apply general rules to specific problems to produce answers that 
  Information Ordering (imp:3.12 lvl:3.00) — The ability to arrange things or actions in a certain order or pattern according
  Trunk Strength (imp:3.12 lvl:3.12) — The ability to use your abdominal and lower back muscles to support part of the 
  Extent Flexibility (imp:3.12 lvl:3.12) — The ability to bend, stretch, twist, or reach with your body, arms, and/or legs.
  Inductive Reasoning (imp:3.00 lvl:3.00) — The ability to combine pieces of information to form general rules or conclusion
  Category Flexibility (imp:3.00 lvl:3.00) — The ability to generate or use different sets of rules for combining or grouping
  Arm-Hand Steadiness (imp:3.00 lvl:3.00) — The ability to keep your hand and arm steady while moving your arm or while hold
  Speech Clarity (imp:3.00 lvl:2.88) — The ability to speak clearly so others can understand you.
  Selective Attention (imp:2.88 lvl:2.75) — The ability to concentrate on a task over a period of time without being distrac
  Stamina (imp:2.88 lvl:2.75) — The ability to exert yourself physically over long periods of time without getti
  Manual Dexterity (imp:2.75 lvl:2.75) — The ability to quickly move your hand, your hand together with your arm, or your
  Finger Dexterity (imp:2.75 lvl:2.75) — The ability to make precisely coordinated movements of the fingers of one or bot
  Multilimb Coordination (imp:2.75 lvl:2.25) — The ability to coordinate two or more limbs (for example, two arms, two legs, or
  Far Vision (imp:2.75 lvl:2.88) — The ability to see details at a distance.
  Time Sharing (imp:2.38 lvl:2.12) — The ability to shift back and forth between two or more activities or sources of
  Visual Color Discrimination (imp:2.38 lvl:2.00) — The ability to match or detect differences between colors, including shades of c
  Memorization (imp:2.25 lvl:2.12) — The ability to remember information such as words, numbers, pictures, and proced
  Flexibility of Closure (imp:2.25 lvl:2.25) — The ability to identify or detect a known pattern (a figure, object, word, or so
  Perceptual Speed (imp:2.25 lvl:2.25) — The ability to quickly and accurately compare similarities and differences among
  Dynamic Strength (imp:2.25 lvl:2.12) — The ability to exert muscle force repeatedly or continuously over time. This inv
  Gross Body Coordination (imp:2.25 lvl:2.12) — The ability to coordinate the movement of your arms, legs, and torso together wh
  Hearing Sensitivity (imp:2.25 lvl:2.00) — The ability to detect or tell the differences between sounds that vary in pitch 
  Fluency of Ideas (imp:2.12 lvl:2.12) — The ability to come up with a number of ideas about a topic (the number of ideas
  Mathematical Reasoning (imp:2.12 lvl:2.00) — The ability to choose the right mathematical methods or formulas to solve a prob
  Number Facility (imp:2.12 lvl:2.00) — The ability to add, subtract, multiply, or divide quickly and correctly.
  Speed of Closure (imp:2.12 lvl:2.00) — The ability to quickly make sense of, combine, and organize information into mea
  Control Precision (imp:2.12 lvl:2.25) — The ability to quickly and repeatedly adjust the controls of a machine or a vehi
  Response Orientation (imp:2.12 lvl:2.12) — The ability to choose quickly between two or more movements in response to two o
  Reaction Time (imp:2.12 lvl:2.00) — The ability to quickly respond (with the hand, finger, or foot) to a signal (sou
  Gross Body Equilibrium (imp:2.12 lvl:1.88) — The ability to keep or regain your body balance or stay upright when in an unsta
  Auditory Attention (imp:2.12 lvl:2.12) — The ability to focus on a single source of sound in the presence of other distra
  Originality (imp:2.00 lvl:2.12) — The ability to come up with unusual or clever ideas about a given topic or situa
  Visualization (imp:2.00 lvl:2.00) — The ability to imagine how something will look after it is moved around or when 
  Speed of Limb Movement (imp:2.00 lvl:1.88) — The ability to quickly move the arms and legs.
  Depth Perception (imp:2.00 lvl:1.75) — The ability to judge which of several objects is closer or farther away from you
  Explosive Strength (imp:1.88 lvl:1.62) — The ability to use short bursts of muscle force to propel oneself (as in jumping
  Wrist-Finger Speed (imp:1.62 lvl:0.88) — The ability to make fast, simple, repeated movements of the fingers, hands, and 
  Dynamic Flexibility (imp:1.62 lvl:0.75) — The ability to quickly and repeatedly bend, stretch, twist, or reach out with yo
  Spatial Orientation (imp:1.25 lvl:0.25) — The ability to know your location in relation to the environment or to know wher
  Rate Control (imp:1.12 lvl:0.12) — The ability to time your movements or the movement of a piece of equipment in an
  Sound Localization (imp:1.12 lvl:0.12) — The ability to tell the direction from which a sound originated.
  Night Vision (imp:1.00) — The ability to see under low-light conditions.
  Peripheral Vision (imp:1.00) — The ability to see objects or movement of objects to one's side when the eyes ar
  Glare Sensitivity (imp:1.00) — The ability to see objects in the presence of a glare or bright lighting.

--- WORK ACTIVITIES ---
  Assisting and Caring for Others (imp:4.56 lvl:4.56) — Providing personal assistance, medical attention, emotional support, or other pe
  Getting Information (imp:4.16 lvl:3.36) — Observing, receiving, and otherwise obtaining information from all relevant sour
  Communicating with Supervisors, Peers, or Subordinates (imp:4.13 lvl:3.57) — Providing information to supervisors, co-workers, and subordinates by telephone,
  Documenting/Recording Information (imp:4.05 lvl:3.47) — Entering, transcribing, recording, storing, or maintaining information in writte
  Establishing and Maintaining Interpersonal Relationships (imp:3.93 lvl:4.15) — Developing constructive and cooperative working relationships with others, and m
  Performing General Physical Activities (imp:3.81 lvl:3.39) — Performing general physical activities includes doing activities that require co
  Monitoring Processes, Materials, or Surroundings (imp:3.75 lvl:5.17) — Monitoring and reviewing information from materials, events, or the environment,
  Identifying Objects, Actions, and Events (imp:3.70 lvl:4.46) — Identifying information by categorizing, estimating, recognizing differences or 
  Making Decisions and Solving Problems (imp:3.62 lvl:3.75) — Analyzing information and evaluating results to choose the best solution and sol
  Developing and Building Teams (imp:3.59 lvl:2.68) — Encouraging and building mutual trust, respect, and cooperation among team membe
  Inspecting Equipment, Structures, or Materials (imp:3.55 lvl:2.99) — Inspecting equipment, structures, or materials to identify the cause of errors o
  Evaluating Information to Determine Compliance with Standards (imp:3.54 lvl:3.32) — Using relevant information and individual judgment to determine whether events o
  Coordinating the Work and Activities of Others (imp:3.50 lvl:2.64) — Getting members of a group to work together to accomplish tasks.
  Resolving Conflicts and Negotiating with Others (imp:3.49 lvl:2.92) — Handling complaints, settling disputes, and resolving grievances and conflicts, 
  Updating and Using Relevant Knowledge (imp:3.46 lvl:4.36) — Keeping up-to-date technically and applying new knowledge to your job.
  Organizing, Planning, and Prioritizing Work (imp:3.40 lvl:3.72) — Developing specific goals and plans to prioritize, organize, and accomplish your
  Processing Information (imp:3.33 lvl:3.69) — Compiling, coding, categorizing, calculating, tabulating, auditing, or verifying
  Training and Teaching Others (imp:3.32 lvl:3.24) — Identifying the educational needs of others, developing formal educational or tr
  Thinking Creatively (imp:3.25 lvl:3.77) — Developing, designing, or creating new applications, ideas, relationships, syste
  Handling and Moving Objects (imp:3.17 lvl:3.53) — Using hands and arms in handling, installing, positioning, and moving materials,
  Interpreting the Meaning of Information for Others (imp:3.15 lvl:2.38) — Translating or explaining what information means and how it can be used.
  Judging the Qualities of Objects, Services, or People (imp:3.11 lvl:3.17) — Assessing the value, importance, or quality of things or people.
  Working with Computers (imp:3.08 lvl:2.83) — Using computers and computer systems (including hardware and software) to progra
  Coaching and Developing Others (imp:2.94 lvl:2.54) — Identifying the developmental needs of others and coaching, mentoring, or otherw
  Scheduling Work and Activities (imp:2.90 lvl:2.69) — Scheduling events, programs, and activities, as well as the work of others.
  Performing for or Working Directly with the Public (imp:2.89 lvl:2.26) — Performing for people or dealing directly with the public. This includes serving
  Analyzing Data or Information (imp:2.88 lvl:3.12) — Identifying the underlying principles, reasons, or facts of information by break
  Estimating the Quantifiable Characteristics of Products, Events, or Information (imp:2.81 lvl:2.86) — Estimating sizes, distances, and quantities; or determining time, costs, resourc
  Providing Consultation and Advice to Others (imp:2.67 lvl:1.95) — Providing guidance and expert advice to management or other groups on technical,
  Controlling Machines and Processes (imp:2.63 lvl:2.16) — Using either control mechanisms or direct physical activity to operate machines 
  Developing Objectives and Strategies (imp:2.57 lvl:2.65) — Establishing long-range objectives and specifying the strategies and actions to 
  Performing Administrative Activities (imp:2.49 lvl:1.56) — Performing day-to-day administrative tasks such as maintaining information files
  Staffing Organizational Units (imp:2.34 lvl:1.60) — Recruiting, interviewing, selecting, hiring, and promoting employees in an organ
  Guiding, Directing, and Motivating Subordinates (imp:2.29 lvl:1.92) — Providing guidance and direction to subordinates, including setting performance 
  Operating Vehicles, Mechanized Devices, or Equipment (imp:2.28 lvl:1.61) — Running, maneuvering, navigating, or driving vehicles or mechanized equipment, s
  Communicating with People Outside the Organization (imp:2.22 lvl:1.52) — Communicating with people outside the organization, representing the organizatio
  Selling or Influencing Others (imp:2.15 lvl:1.42) — Convincing others to buy merchandise/goods or to otherwise change their minds or
  Monitoring and Controlling Resources (imp:2.08 lvl:1.99) — Monitoring and controlling resources and overseeing the spending of money.
  Repairing and Maintaining Electronic Equipment (imp:1.97 lvl:1.43) — Servicing, repairing, calibrating, regulating, fine-tuning, or testing machines,
  Drafting, Laying Out, and Specifying Technical Devices, Parts, and Equipment (imp:1.94 lvl:1.67) — Providing documentation, detailed instructions, drawings, or specifications to t
  Repairing and Maintaining Mechanical Equipment (imp:1.94 lvl:1.58) — Servicing, repairing, adjusting, and testing machines, devices, moving parts, an

--- WORK STYLES ---
  Dependability (imp:9.00) — A tendency to be reliable, responsible, and consistent in meeting work-related o
  Attention to Detail (imp:8.00) — A tendency to be detail-oriented, organized, and thorough in completing work.
  Integrity (imp:7.00) — A tendency to be honest and ethical at work.
  Cooperation (imp:6.00) — A tendency to be pleasant, helpful, and willing to assist others at work.
  Social Orientation (imp:5.00) — A tendency to seek out, enjoy, and be energized by social interaction at work.
  Self-Control (imp:4.00) — A tendency to remain calm and composed and to manage emotions effectively in res
  Empathy (imp:3.00) — A tendency to show concern for others and be sensitive to others' needs and feel
  Empathy (imp:2.97) — A tendency to show concern for others and be sensitive to others' needs and feel
  Cooperation (imp:2.78) — A tendency to be pleasant, helpful, and willing to assist others at work.
  Dependability (imp:2.65) — A tendency to be reliable, responsible, and consistent in meeting work-related o
  Optimism (imp:2.22) — A tendency to exhibit a positive attitude and positive emotions at work, even un
  Attention to Detail (imp:2.22) — A tendency to be detail-oriented, organized, and thorough in completing work.
  Integrity (imp:2.21) — A tendency to be honest and ethical at work.
  Social Orientation (imp:2.15) — A tendency to seek out, enjoy, and be energized by social interaction at work.
  Sincerity (imp:2.10) — A tendency to be genuine and sincere in interactions with others at work, withou
  Self-Control (imp:2.02) — A tendency to remain calm and composed and to manage emotions effectively in res
  Sincerity (imp:2.00) — A tendency to be genuine and sincere in interactions with others at work, withou
  Stress Tolerance (imp:1.93) — A tendency to cope and function effectively in stressful situations at work.
  Perseverance (imp:1.77) — A tendency to exhibit determination and resolve to perform or complete tasks in 
  Cautiousness (imp:1.69) — A tendency to be careful, deliberate, and risk-avoidant when making work-related
  Humility (imp:1.63) — A tendency to be modest and humble when interacting with others at work.
  Adaptability (imp:1.22) — A tendency to be open to and comfortable with change, new experiences, or ideas 
  Optimism (imp:1.00) — A tendency to exhibit a positive attitude and positive emotions at work, even un
  Initiative (imp:0.97) — A tendency to be proactive and take on extra responsibilities and tasks that may
  Achievement Orientation (imp:0.71) — A tendency to establish and maintain personally challenging work-related goals, 
  Self-Confidence (imp:0.71) — A tendency to believe in one's work-related capabilities and ability to control 
  Tolerance for Ambiguity (imp:0.25) — A tendency to be comfortable with ambiguity and uncertainty at work.
  Intellectual Curiosity (imp:0.14) — A tendency to seek out and acquire new work-related knowledge and obtain a deep 
  Innovation () — A tendency to be inventive, to be imaginative, and to adopt new perspectives on 
  Achievement Orientation () — A tendency to establish and maintain personally challenging work-related goals, 
  Intellectual Curiosity () — A tendency to seek out and acquire new work-related knowledge and obtain a deep 
  Tolerance for Ambiguity () — A tendency to be comfortable with ambiguity and uncertainty at work.
  Initiative () — A tendency to be proactive and take on extra responsibilities and tasks that may
  Adaptability () — A tendency to be open to and comfortable with change, new experiences, or ideas 
  Self-Confidence () — A tendency to believe in one's work-related capabilities and ability to control 
  Perseverance () — A tendency to exhibit determination and resolve to perform or complete tasks in 
  Leadership Orientation () — A tendency to lead, take charge, offer opinions, and provide direction at work.
  Humility () — A tendency to be modest and humble when interacting with others at work.
  Cautiousness () — A tendency to be careful, deliberate, and risk-avoidant when making work-related
  Stress Tolerance () — A tendency to cope and function effectively in stressful situations at work.
  Innovation (imp:-0.08) — A tendency to be inventive, to be imaginative, and to adopt new perspectives on 
  Leadership Orientation (imp:-0.34) — A tendency to lead, take charge, offer opinions, and provide direction at work.

--- TRANSFERABLE SKILLS ---
  Service Orientation (imp:4.00 lvl:3.88) — Actively looking for ways to help people.
  Social Perceptiveness (imp:3.62 lvl:3.25) — Being aware of others' reactions and understanding why they react as they do.
  Coordination (imp:3.12 lvl:3.00) — Adjusting actions in relation to others' actions.
  Judgment and Decision Making (imp:2.88 lvl:2.50) — Considering the relative costs and benefits of potential actions to choose the m
  Time Management (imp:2.88 lvl:2.25) — Managing one's own time and the time of others.
  Complex Problem Solving (imp:2.62 lvl:2.25) — Identifying complex problems and reviewing related information to develop and ev
  Instructing (imp:2.50 lvl:2.62) — Teaching others how to do something.
  Operations Monitoring (imp:2.25 lvl:1.88) — Watching gauges, dials, or other indicators to make sure a machine is working pr
  Quality Control Analysis (imp:2.25 lvl:1.88) — Conducting tests and inspections of products, services, or processes to evaluate
  Systems Evaluation (imp:2.12 lvl:2.00) — Identifying measures or indicators of system performance and the actions needed 
  Persuasion (imp:2.00 lvl:1.75) — Persuading others to change their minds or behavior.
  Systems Analysis (imp:2.00 lvl:1.38) — Determining how a system should work and how changes in conditions, operations, 
  Management of Personnel Resources (imp:2.00 lvl:1.88) — Motivating, developing, and directing people as they work, identifying the best 
  Negotiation (imp:1.88 lvl:1.75) — Bringing others together and trying to reconcile differences.
  Troubleshooting (imp:1.88 lvl:0.88) — Determining causes of operating errors and deciding what to do about it.
  Operation and Control (imp:1.62 lvl:0.88) — Controlling operations of equipment or systems.
  Management of Material Resources (imp:1.62 lvl:0.62) — Obtaining and seeing to the appropriate use of equipment, facilities, and materi
  Technology Design (imp:1.50 lvl:0.62) — Generating or adapting equipment and technology to serve user needs.
  Management of Financial Resources (imp:1.38 lvl:0.38) — Determining how money will be spent to get the work done, and accounting for the
  Equipment Selection (imp:1.25 lvl:0.38) — Determining the kind of tools and equipment needed to do a job.
  Operations Analysis (imp:1.12 lvl:0.12) — Analyzing needs and product requirements to create a design.
  Installation (imp:1.00) — Installing equipment, machines, wiring, or programs to meet specifications.
  Programming (imp:1.00) — Writing computer programs for various purposes.
  Equipment Maintenance (imp:1.00) — Performing routine maintenance on equipment and determining when and what kind o
  Repairing (imp:1.00) — Repairing machines or systems using the needed tools.
BLS OEWS May 2025 — 1,448,910 employed nationally bls.gov/oes ↗ · Public Domain · US Government · retrieved 2026-06-02
--- NATIONAL WAGES ---
  total_employment : 1,448,910
  annual_median    : $42,260
  annual_pct10     : $33,940
  annual_pct25     : $37,260
  annual_pct75     : $47,220
  annual_pct90     : $51,980
  annual_mean      : $42,700
  hourly_median    : $20.32

--- GEOGRAPHIC DISPERSION ---
  highest_state    : Oregon ($49,830)
  lowest_state     : Puerto Rico ($22,850)
  dispersion_ratio : 2.181x

--- TOP STATES BY WAGE (53 total) ---
  Health Care and Social Assistance        emp: 1,336,230  median: $  41,290
  Administrative and Support and Waste Management and Remediation Services emp:   48,650  median: $  47,810
  Federal, State, and Local Government, excluding State and Local Government Schools and Hospitals and the U.S. Postal Service (OEWS Designation) emp:   46,880  median: $  47,050
  Educational Services                     emp:   12,620  median: $  42,630
  Management of Companies and Enterprises  emp:    2,220  median: $  42,800
  Other Services (except Public Administration) emp:    1,210  median: $  42,900
  Professional, Scientific, and Technical Services emp:      430  median: $  46,920
  Retail Trade                             emp:      120  median: $  34,190
  Finance and Insurance                    emp:       40  median: $  60,710

--- TOP INDUSTRIES BY EMPLOYMENT (9 total) ---
  Health Care and Social Assistance        emp: 1,336,230  median: $  41,290
  Administrative and Support and Waste Management and Remediation Services emp:   48,650  median: $  47,810
  Federal, State, and Local Government, excluding State and Local Government Schools and Hospitals and the U.S. Postal Service (OEWS Designation) emp:   46,880  median: $  47,050
  Educational Services                     emp:   12,620  median: $  42,630
  Management of Companies and Enterprises  emp:    2,220  median: $  42,800
  Other Services (except Public Administration) emp:    1,210  median: $  42,900
  Professional, Scientific, and Technical Services emp:      430  median: $  46,920
  Retail Trade                             emp:      120  median: $  34,190
  Finance and Insurance                    emp:       40  median: $  60,710
Wikipedia — Physician assistant (6,200 words) https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Physician_assistant ↗ · CC BY-SA 4.0
exact_match_status : found
matched_title      : Physician assistant
match_score        : 0.7027
wikidata_qid       : Q718927
word_count         : 6,200
wikipedia_url      : https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Physician_assistant
license            : CC BY-SA 4.0
fetched_at         : 2026-06-02T21:51:40.698822Z

--- WIKIPEDIA FULL TEXT ---
A physician assistant or physician associate (PA) is a type of non-physician practitioner. While these job titles are used internationally, there is significant variation in training and scope of practice from country to country, and sometimes between smaller jurisdictions such as states or provinces. Depending on location, PAs practice semi-autonomously under the supervision of a physician, or autonomously perform a subset of medical services classically provided by physicians.
The educational model was initially based upon the accelerated training of physicians in the United States during the shortage of qualified medical providers during World War II.  Since then, the use of PAs has spread to at least 16 countries around the world. In the US, PAs may diagnose illnesses, develop and manage treatment plans, prescribe medications, and serve as a principal healthcare provider. In many states PAs are required to have a direct agreement with a physician. 
In the UK, PAs were introduced in 2003. They support the work of the healthcare team, but are dependent clinicians requiring supervision from a physician. They cannot prescribe medications nor request ionising radiation investigations (e.g., x-ray) in the UK.  PAs are widely used in Canada.  The model began during the Korean War and transitioned to the present concept in 2002.  Skills and scope of privileges are similar to those in the US.


== Title and professional identity ==
The occupational title of physician assistant and physician associate originated in the United States in 1967 at Duke University. The role has been adopted in the US, Canada, United Kingdom, Republic of Ireland, Netherlands, Australia, New Zealand, India, Israel, Bulgaria, Myanmar, Switzerland, Liberia, Ghana, and by analogous names throughout Africa, each with their own nomenclature and education structure. In Malawi they are called clinical officers. Most of them study clinical medicine at the Malawi College of Health Sciences and other colleges within the country. In 2021, the American Academy of Physician Assistants voted to rename itself the American Academy of Physician Associates (AAPA) and adopted "physician associate" as the preferred professional designation. U.S. state governments such as the one in Oregon have begun to implement statutory changes to reflect the name change in Oregon. The move has been controversial; critics of the name change feel the word "associate" could be misleading for patients trying to understand PAs' scope of practice, while proponents feel it better conveys the profession's collaborative and independent roles.


== Services ==
Depending on jurisdiction, a physician assistant or associates may:

conduct patient interviews and take medical histories
conduct physical examinations, including the interpretation of clinical signs
order and interpret diagnostic tests and exams (As per International labour Organisation code)
diagnose illnesses
formulate treatment plans
coordinate and manage care
perform medical procedures
prescribe medications (As per International labour organisation norms if any)
conduct clinical research
provide patient counselling
offer advice on preventative health care
first assist in surgery
Can serve as a clinical tutor/Demonstrator, assistant professor, associate professor, or professor (depending on academic qualifications along with experience).
In Administrative sector, can serve as principal/Director, Dean etc. as per experience & Qualifications.


== Scope of practice and regulation ==
Physician assistant scope of practice vary by country and state. Physician assistant practice laws in a majority of US states have been updated in recent years to give PAs more autonomy and reduce onerous supervision language. A few states now allow PAs to practice under a "collaborative" agreement rather than with direct physician supervision. In the UK, the General Medical Council (GMC) has become the official regulator of physician associates in December 2024. England's 2025 Leng Review also recommended standard national policies, including a specific supervision model and a unique PA uniform to distinguish PAs from doctors.


== Workplaces ==
Physician assistants or associates train to work in settings such as hospitals, clinics and other types of health facilities, or virtually via telemedicine. PAs are commonly found working in teaching and research as well as hospital administration and other clinical environments. PAs may practice in primary care or Health Sciences specialties, including emergency medicine, surgery and cardiology.


== Employment growth and compensation ==
Physician assistant job growth in the 21st century has been substantial. In the United States, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reported that "demand for PAs is expected to grow 27% from 2022 to 2032, much faster than the average for all occupations". Median annual wages for U.S. physician assistants have increased to over $130,000 and are higher still in surgical and emergency medicine subspecialties. A number of sources have reported that the increasing demand for physician assistants is a result of physician shortages in primary care and increased use of team-based models of care.


== Training ==
Physician assistant (or associate) education is shorter than the medical degree required to become a physician (MD/DO). Most PAs in the United States have completed 4 years of undergraduate training followed by 2–3 years of Master's-level training, including both didactic training and clinical training. The didactic portions usually include microbiology, genetics, clinical anatomy and physiology, clinical pathophysiology, clinical medicine, clinical pharmacology, patient history & physical exam, clinical problem-solving, women's health, and applied clinical skills. The clinical year usually entails of 4-8 week rotations in surgery, family medicine, emergency medicine, OB/GYN, psychiatry, internal medicine, pediatrics, and other rotations depending on the school. In total, most United States PA Master's programs come out to about 100 semester credit hours (ranging from 95 to 122) or 150 quarter hours.
After training and graduation, most PAs in the US take the PANCE for board certification. The PANCE is a 300-question exam (five 60-question blocks) covering a wide variety of medical topics, assessing for entry-level competency of a PA.  Unlike an MD, a PA's training typically does not involve residency training, although this is increasingly offered in a variety of specialties.
Renewal of certification is usually required every few years, varying by jurisdiction. In the US, many states require PAs to submit CME hours to demonstrate they are staying up to date for licensure renewal. The National Commission on Certification of PAs (NCCPA) requires 100 CME hours every 2 years to maintain certification. Every 10 years, the NCCPA requires PAs to take the PANRE (four 60-question blocks taken at once) or PANRE-LA (taken between years 7 and 9 of practice, consisting of twelve 25-question blocks), an exam that aims to test the competency of practicing PAs.
Some PAs go on to get doctorates (DMS/DMSc/DScPAS). These doctorates are professional doctorates most similar to a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP), but do not necessarily increase medical knowledge or scope of practice. While programs based in the United States have some level of variability, these doctorate programs are largely focused in academic research, health administration, and health leadership education. 


== Diversity and representation ==
The PA profession in the United States continues to have recruitment and diversity issues, with the physician assistant workforce remaining predominantly white and male. A 2025 report by the Milbank Memorial Fund discovered that approximately 3.5% of recent PA graduates self-identified as Black, American Indian, Alaska Native, Native Hawaiian, or Pacific Islander, while about 6.4% of recent graduates self-identified as 

--- SEMANTIC NEIGHBORS (5) ---

  Title: Unlicensed assistive personnel (similarity: 0.4167)
  URL: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Unlicensed_assistive_personnel
  QID: Q1078096
  Extract: Unlicensed assistive personnel (UAP), including certified nursing assistants and home health aides, are paraprofessionals who assist individuals with physical disabilities, mental impairments, and other health care needs with their activities of daily living (ADLs). UAPs also provide bedside care—in

  Title: Nursing home (similarity: 0.5333)
  URL: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nursing_home
  QID: Q837142
  Extract: A nursing home is a facility for the residential care of older people, senior citizens, or disabled people. Nursing homes may also be referred to as care homes, skilled nursing facilities (SNF), rest homes, long-term care facilities or more informally old people's homes. Often, these terms have slig

  Title: Nursing (similarity: 0.5600)
  URL: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nursing
  QID: Q121176
  Extract: Nursing is a health care profession that "integrates the art and science of caring and focuses on the protection, promotion, and optimization of health and human functioning; prevention of illness and injury; facilitation of healing; and alleviation of suffering through compassionate presence".

  Title: Travel nursing (similarity: 0.4375)
  URL: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Travel_nursing
  QID: Q7835958
  Extract: Travel nursing is a nursing assignment concept that developed in response to the nursing shortage in the United States in the 1970s. This business supplies nurses who travel to work in temporary nursing positions, mostly in hospitals. While travel nursing historically refers specifically to the nurs

  Title: Military Nursing Service (similarity: 0.4762)
  URL: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Military_Nursing_Service
  QID: Q6852087
  Extract: The Indian Military Nursing Services (MNS) is a part of the Armed Forces Medical Services (AFMS) of the Indian Army, originally formed under British rule in 1888. Officers in the MNS (Corps) are granted Short Service Commission initially and can opt for Permanent Commission based on selection and va
Claude Inference — claude-sonnet-4-20250514 · confidence:high · $0.0481 inferred_at: 2026-06-03T20:07:00 UTC · Boise Standard inference pipeline v1.0
model_pass1          : claude-sonnet-4-20250514
model_pass2          : claude-haiku-4-5-20251001
inference_confidence : high
confidence_notes     : Strong data foundation with comprehensive O*NET work activities, skills, and knowledge profiles. BLS wage data provides robust market intelligence. Clear career pathways and educational requirements are well-documented across multiple sources.
inferred_at          : 2026-06-03T20:07:00.664022+00:00
tokens_input         : 4,759
tokens_output        : 4,313
cost_usd             : $0.048117
wikipedia_used       : False
wikipedia_title      : None
wikipedia_note       : The Wikipedia exact match for 'Physician assistant' is not relevant to nursing assistants, as physician assistants are advanced practice providers requiring extensive medical training. The semantic neighbor 'Unlicensed assistive personnel' more accurately describes the nursing assistant role and certification requirements.

--- PROSE FIELDS ---

ROLE SUMMARY:
Nursing Assistants provide essential hands-on care to patients in healthcare facilities under the supervision of licensed nursing staff. They perform fundamental daily living assistance including bathing, feeding, dressing, and mobility support while monitoring and documenting patient status. With over 1.4 million employed nationwide, they form the backbone of patient care delivery in hospitals, nursing homes, and other healthcare settings.

DAY IN THE LIFE:
Nursing Assistants begin their shifts by reviewing patient assignments and care plans, then proceed to assist patients with personal hygiene tasks like bathing, dressing, and grooming. Throughout the day, they measure and record vital signs such as temperature, blood pressure, and pulse, documenting any changes for nursing staff review. They help patients with meals, monitor food and fluid intake, and assist with mobility by repositioning bedridden patients or helping them move between beds and examination tables. Administrative duties include restocking patient rooms with supplies, updating patient records, and providing information to visitors about patient status and facility policies.

WHO THRIVES:
Individuals who excel in this role demonstrate high dependability and attention to detail, as patient safety and accurate documentation are critical. They possess strong social orientation and empathy, enabling them to provide compassionate care while establishing meaningful relationships with patients and families. Successful nursing assistants have excellent communication skills for interacting with diverse patients, family members, and healthcare team members. Physical stamina and strength are essential, as the role involves significant lifting, positioning, and standing for extended periods while maintaining focus on patient comfort and safety.

CAREER ENTRY:
Most nursing assistants enter the field with a high school diploma or equivalent (38.7%) and complete a state-approved training program, typically offered through community colleges, vocational schools, or healthcare facilities. Post-secondary certificates are held by 24% of workers, usually involving 4-12 weeks of classroom instruction and clinical practice covering basic nursing skills, anatomy, infection control, and patient rights. All states require nursing assistants to pass a competency evaluation and maintain certification through continuing education, with many facilities providing on-the-job training for specific protocols and electronic health record systems.

CAREER TRAJECTORY:
Nursing assistants often advance by gaining specialized certifications in areas like medication administration or dementia care, potentially increasing their responsibilities and earning potential. Many use this role as a stepping stone to licensed practical nursing or registered nursing programs, leveraging their hands-on patient care experience. Career progression may also lead to supervisory positions such as charge nursing assistant or patient care coordinator, or transitions to related healthcare support roles like medical assistants or physical therapist aides.

MARKET INTELLIGENCE:
The nursing assistant profession employs 1,448,910 workers with a median annual wage of $42,260 according to BLS OEWS May 2025, ranging from $33,940 at the 10th percentile to $51,980 at the 90th percentile. Geographic wage variation is significant, with Oregon offering the highest median wage at $49,830 compared to Puerto Rico's $22,850, reflecting local cost of living and healthcare market conditions. The vast majority (92.2%) work in health care and social assistance industries, with nursing homes, hospitals, and home healthcare agencies being primary employers. Strong job growth is expected due to an aging population requiring increased long-term care services, creating sustained demand across all geographic regions.

AUTOMATION OUTLOOK:
Nursing assistants face low automation risk as their core work activities center on direct human interaction and complex physical care tasks requiring empathy, judgment, and adaptability. While technology may assist with documentation and monitoring through electronic health records and vital sign devices, the fundamental aspects of personal care, emotional support, and hands-on patient assistance remain inherently human-centered. The profession's emphasis on assisting and caring for others, establishing interpersonal relationships, and responding to individual patient needs creates strong barriers to technological replacement.

--- REASONED EDGES ---
  [task_similarity] Home Health Aides (31-1121.00) — confidence:high
    reasoning: Both roles share identical core tasks of assisting with daily living activities, monitoring patient status, and providing personal care under healthcare supervision.
    data: Assisting and Caring for Others (imp:4.6)
    data: Customer and Personal Service knowledge
    data: Similar RIASEC profile with Social dominance
  [career_pathway] Licensed Practical and Licensed Vocational Nurses (29-2061.00) — confidence:high
    reasoning: Many nursing assistants advance to LPN roles, building on their patient care experience and knowledge of medical procedures and documentation.
    data: Medicine and Dentistry knowledge overlap
    data: Monitoring and Active Listening skills
    data: Similar healthcare work environment
  [skill_overlap] Medical Assistants (31-9092.00) — confidence:medium
    reasoning: Both roles require strong interpersonal communication, documentation skills, and patient interaction capabilities in healthcare settings.
    data: Active Listening and Speaking skills
    data: Documenting/Recording Information activity
    data: Customer and Personal Service knowledge
  [knowledge_overlap] Psychiatric Aides (31-1133.00) — confidence:medium
    reasoning: Both positions require Psychology knowledge and therapeutic interaction skills for patient care and behavioral observation.
    data: Psychology knowledge (imp:3.0)
    data: Social Perceptiveness transferable skill
    data: Therapy and Counseling knowledge
  [career_pathway] Registered Nurses (29-1141.00) — confidence:high
    reasoning: Nursing assistants frequently pursue RN education, leveraging their clinical experience and understanding of patient care protocols.
    data: Shared healthcare work environment
    data: Medicine and Dentistry knowledge foundation
    data: Critical Thinking and Problem Sensitivity abilities
  [transferable_skill] Physical Therapist Aides (31-2022.00) — confidence:medium
    reasoning: Both roles involve patient positioning, mobility assistance, and physical strength requirements for patient care activities.
    data: Static Strength ability requirement
    data: Performing General Physical Activities
    data: Patient positioning and movement tasks

--- NORMALIZER SIGNALS ---
  match_keywords   : ['nursing assistant', 'certified nursing assistant', 'CNA', 'nurse aide', 'certified nurse aide', 'nursing attendant', 'patient care assistant', 'healthcare assistant']
  exclude_keywords : ['registered nurse', 'licensed practical nurse', 'nurse practitioner', 'charge nurse', 'nurse manager']
  title_patterns   : ['certified nursing assistant', 'nursing assistant', 'nurse aide', 'CNA', 'nursing attendant']
  common_variations: ['nursing assistant', 'certified nursing assistant', 'CNA', 'nurse aide', 'certified nurse aide', 'nursing attendant', 'patient care assistant', 'healthcare aide']
Semantic Manifold — 40 terms · 5 provenance layers employment_word_extractor.py · sources: onet_tasks | onet_dimensions | dwas | wikipedia | inference · Constitutional Law III
total_terms    : 40
top_words      : ['physician', 'pas', 'medical', 'care', 'assistants', 'health', 'assistant', 'patients', 'nursing', 'practice', 'tendency', 'others', 'patient', 'states', 'clinical', 'programs', 'equipment', 'medicine', 'united', 'profession']
source_layers  : onet_tasks | onet_dimensions | dwas | wikipedia | inference

TERM                    COUNT     FREQ  DOMINANT SOURCE      SOURCE BREAKDOWN
──────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────
physician                 152  0.02466  wikipedia            wikipedia:97%  onet_tasks:2%  inference:1%
pas                        83  0.01346  wikipedia            wikipedia:100%
medical                    73  0.01184  wikipedia            wikipedia:73%  dwas:15%  onet_tasks:8%
care                       64  0.01038  wikipedia            wikipedia:73%  inference:17%  dwas:5%
assistants                 62  0.01006  wikipedia            wikipedia:84%  inference:16%
health                     57  0.00925  wikipedia            wikipedia:82%  dwas:11%  inference:5%
assistant                  55  0.00892  wikipedia            wikipedia:93%  inference:7%
patients                   50  0.00811  dwas                 dwas:36%  onet_tasks:34%  wikipedia:16%
nursing                    44  0.00714  wikipedia            wikipedia:55%  inference:41%  onet_tasks:5%
practice                   44  0.00714  wikipedia            wikipedia:95%  inference:5%
tendency                   42  0.00681  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:100%
others                     41  0.00665  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:93%  onet_tasks:2%  wikipedia:2%
patient                    37  0.00600  inference            inference:35%  onet_tasks:24%  dwas:22%
states                     35  0.00568  wikipedia            wikipedia:97%  inference:3%
clinical                   30  0.00487  wikipedia            wikipedia:97%  inference:3%
programs                   29  0.00470  wikipedia            wikipedia:83%  onet_dimensions:14%  inference:3%
equipment                  28  0.00454  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:82%  onet_tasks:11%  dwas:7%
medicine                   28  0.00454  wikipedia            wikipedia:96%  onet_dimensions:4%
united                     26  0.00422  wikipedia            wikipedia:100%
profession                 25  0.00406  wikipedia            wikipedia:92%  inference:8%
years                      21  0.00341  wikipedia            wikipedia:100%
physicians                 20  0.00325  wikipedia            wikipedia:90%  onet_tasks:10%
scope                      20  0.00325  wikipedia            wikipedia:100%
associates                 20  0.00325  wikipedia            wikipedia:100%
services                   19  0.00308  wikipedia            wikipedia:63%  onet_dimensions:32%  inference:5%
program                    19  0.00308  wikipedia            wikipedia:89%  onet_dimensions:5%  inference:5%
university                 19  0.00308  wikipedia            wikipedia:100%
activities                 18  0.00292  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:50%  dwas:22%  onet_tasks:11%
physical                   18  0.00292  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:33%  wikipedia:28%  inference:17%
healthcare                 18  0.00292  wikipedia            wikipedia:61%  inference:39%
canada                     18  0.00292  wikipedia            wikipedia:100%
government                 17  0.00276  wikipedia            wikipedia:82%  onet_dimensions:18%
principles                 16  0.00260  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:100%
associate                  16  0.00260  wikipedia            wikipedia:100%
treatment                  15  0.00243  dwas                 dwas:40%  onet_tasks:27%  onet_dimensions:20%
under                      15  0.00243  wikipedia            wikipedia:67%  onet_dimensions:20%  onet_tasks:7%
procedures                 15  0.00243  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:53%  wikipedia:40%  dwas:7%
emergency                  15  0.00243  wikipedia            wikipedia:100%
needs                      14  0.00227  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:57%  wikipedia:21%  onet_tasks:7%
primary                    14  0.00227  wikipedia            wikipedia:93%  inference:7%
◈ Boise Standard Employment Graph · 31-1131.00 · built 2026-06-02 · Sources declared above are authoritative originals. This page synthesizes but does not replace them. Every claim traceable. Full provenance. Constitutional Law I.
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