Under the supervision of a physician, PAs key functions can include:
- Conducting patient interviews, histories and physical exams
- Ordering and interpreting tests
- Prescribing medications
- Counselling patients on preventive health care
- Performing diagnostic/therapeutic procedures or assisting in surgery
- Performing other tasks within the supervising physician’s scope of practice that the physician deems the PA qualified to complete.
PAs are trained as generalists and can seamlessly fit into many areas within the health system.
Canadian Physician Assistant Profiles
To better acquaint our community with the Physician Assistant (PA) profession, newly introduced in our province, we are featuring profiles of Canadian PAs and PA students, shared by Canadian PA Blog. These profiles highlight the vital contributions PAs make to health care.
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| Aurthi, Emergency Medicine PA | Andrew, Orthopaedic Trauma PA | Maureen, Infectious Disease PA |
Canadian Association of Physician Assistants (CAPA)
The Canadian Association of Physician Assistants (CAPA) is a professional association dedicated to advocating for the introduction and expansion of the Physician Assistant (PA) profession in Canada. Serving as the national voice for PAs, CAPA promotes the role of PAs within the national health care framework and champions the profession's growth. While membership in CAPA is optional, it supports the establishment and maintenance of quality standards and competencies for PAs. New graduates may be eligible for reduced membership rates.
CAPA Code of Ethics
The CAPA Code of Ethics, adapted from the Canadian Medical Association’s guidelines, sets the ethical standards for PAs, ensuring they prioritize patient well-being, maintain professional integrity, and practice medicine competently. It emphasizes lifelong learning, confidentiality, equity in health care, and accountability in various professional scenarios.
For more information, visit Code of Ethics
Physician Assistant Certification Council of Canada (PACCC)
The PACCC certifies Canadian PAs, ensuring that they maintain the necessary competencies throughout their careers, which are essential across all areas of practice.
College of Physicians and Surgeons of Saskatchewan (CPSS)
The CPSS is the regulatory body that licenses and oversees medical professionals in Saskatchewan, including Physician Assistants (PA). Their responsibilities include:
⦁ Ensuring safe and competent care by setting standards for practice and conduct.
⦁ Facilitating information exchange on regulatory matters among members.
⦁ Protecting public interest through rigorous licensure processes.
⦁ Administering assessments and certifications for practice eligibility.
For more detailed information about the regulations and standards, visit the CPSS website.
SK Physician Assistant Podcast
The SK Physician Assistant podcast was created by the University of Saskatchewan College of Medicine with the goal of providing listeners with information about the physician assistant profession. This limited series podcast we will cover topics such as What is a physician assistant? What training is required to become a physician assistant? What is it like to work in a physician/PA dyad? and more.
Episode 1: What is a Physician Assistant?
Recorded Webinars
View webinars from the College of Medicine's MPAS program.
Improving Health Care Access: The Role of Physician Assistants in Saskatchewan
This webinar was presented on January 7, 2025 and introduces the physician assistant (PA) profession to physicians, addressing scope of practice, licensing, remuneration, and the role of PAs in enhancing health care delivery across the province.
Hosted by the University of Saskatchewan's College of Medicine in collaboration with the Saskatchewan Health Authority (SHA), the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Saskatchewan (CPSS) and the Canadian Association of Physician Assistants (CAPA).
Webinar slides
Resource Posters
What is a PA
Student Financial Aid and Awards
Financial Aid
For more information and resources on loans and financial aid, please visit Other Loans and Financial Resources. We encourage students to explore different financial institutions to find the option that best suits their needs.
Awards
Dr. Gerald Siemens Awards
Recognizing the urgent shortage of primary care providers in rural and underserved communities, Dr. Gerald Siemens has generously established the inaugural awards for the College of Medicine’s new Master of Physician Assistant Studies (MPAS) program. These awards reflect his commitment to supporting healthcare professionals who will help address this critical gap and deliver quality care across the province. Two awards of $5,000 each will be granted to students in the MPAS Class of 2027, helping to support those who are ready to be part of the solution.
Application Period
Applications will open on July 1, 2025, and close on August 1, 2025 at 11:59 PM (SK time).
How to Apply
Applicants must be admitted to the MPAS Class of 2027. Students must log in to PAWS and access the Awards and Scholarships channel to begin their application. Within the application portal, students will be prompted to complete two key components: the Financial Need Calculator and a Written Essay outlining their interest in the MPAS program and their commitment to serving underserved and rural communities.
These criteria reflect the values behind the award and align with the broader goals of the MPAS program. Selection will be based on the strength of the written submission and the applicant’s demonstrated financial need, as determined by the MPAS Awards Committee.